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John J. Alvarez, M.D.
Gastroenterologist
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He began his journey into medicine while pursuing his undergraduate degree. He had the opportunity to shadow internists at Thomason Hospital in El Paso, TX, and he was amazed by their ability to diagnose and treat complex diseases. After that experience, he felt there was no other career path that would be more satisfying than that of a physician. He chose gastroenterology because it requires a strong background in Internal Medicine as well as a surgical understanding of the human body.
Dr. Alvarez graduated from Trinity University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, followed by a Master’s degree in Public Health from the UT Houston School of Public Health. He next attended medical school at the UT Health Science Center at San Antonio School of Medicine, where he also completed his internship and residency in Internal Medicine.
Dr. Alvarez received specialty training at Baylor Scott & White, and he worked with an innovator and specialist in the field of endoscopic ultrasound and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). That training has helped him to establish himself as a gastroenterologist in San Antonio.
Although all aspects of gastrointestinal disease fascinate Dr. Alvarez, he is especially interested in pancreatic and biliary diseases. Because of his specialized training, Dr. Alvarez has the advantage of diagnosing and treating a wide range of pancreatic and biliary diseases. Endoscopic ultrasound is a great tool that allows him to view, evaluate, and biopsy organs and benign or malignant tumors, both within and outside of the gastrointestinal tract. The use of endoscopic ultrasound in combination with ERCP has decreased the need for ERCP as a diagnostic tool over time, thus minimizing the associated risk of performing this particular procedure.
When he’s not working, Dr. Alvarez enjoys many different types of exercise, including weight lifting, golf, basketball, tennis, snowboarding, and riding his mountain bike. He also likes to listen to live music.
Education
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Trinity University, San Antonio, TX
Master of Public Health, University of Texas Houston School of Public Health, Houston, TX
Doctor of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio School of Medicine San Antonio, TX
Internship, Residency in Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas
Fellowship, Gastroenterology Baylor Scott and White Health Central Texas, Killeen, TX
Memberships/Affiliations
Officer and member, Gastrointestinal Interest Group (2011-2012)
Vice President, Latino Medical Student Association(2009)
Member, American Medical Association
Member, American College of Gastroenterology
Member, American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Locations
Reviews
Dr. John Alvarez is a rarity in the medical field. From the moment you step into his office, you feel seen, heard, and genuinely cared for. His attention to detail and attentiveness during every visit are unmatched — he never rushes through appointments and takes the time to truly listen and understand your concerns.
What sets Dr. Alvarez apart is his commitment to finding the best approach for each individual patient. He doesn’t settle for one-size-fits-all solutions; instead, he thoughtfully investigates every option, weighs the pros and cons, and ensures you’re informed and confident in your care plan. His dedication to providing the highest quality of patient care is evident in everything he does.
If you’re looking for a doctor who combines medical excellence with genuine compassion and a personalized approach, Dr. Alvarez is the one. I feel incredibly grateful that my husband is under his care and would recommend him without hesitation to anyone needing advanced GI care.
What sets Dr. Alvarez apart is his commitment to finding the best approach for each individual patient. He doesn’t settle for one-size-fits-all solutions; instead, he thoughtfully investigates every option, weighs the pros and cons, and ensures you’re informed and confident in your care plan. His dedication to providing the highest quality of patient care is evident in everything he does.
If you’re looking for a doctor who combines medical excellence with genuine compassion and a personalized approach, Dr. Alvarez is the one. I feel incredibly grateful that my husband is under his care and would recommend him without hesitation to anyone needing advanced GI care.
Dr. Alvarez is an outstanding doctor who genuinely listens to his patients’ concerns. He is honest about treatment options and ensures that patients fully understand their choices. I felt very satisfied with my visit and would highly recommend him to anyone experiencing gastrointestinal issues or simply needing a check-up. His professionalism and patient-centered approach make him an excellent choice for medical care.
Dr Álvarez is very thorough in his evaluations and makes certain to personally follow up particularly after procedures. I have had a few procedures done with the Group and Dr Alvarez and I'm so pleased with his level of care.
Scheduled for procedure at 11am but didn't happen until 125pm. Other than delay dr. Alvarez and all the nurses and staff were great and made me very comfortable
My recent visit on 2/23 was awesome. Love Dr John Jacob Alvarez and coordinator Eddy. They’re like friends or family. Always very concerned with my medical conditions. If it wasn’t for them and Eddie’s constant persistence,I wouldn’t be receiving my biologic meds with a subsidize program at no co-pay cost. I look forward to my quarterly visits.
Great experience with Dr. Alvarez. He took his time and answered all of my questions. The staff was very friendly and professional too.
I've been a patient if Dr Alvarez about over 5yrs. He is very knowledgeable, has an excellent bedside manor and explains everything thoroughly. He is an excellent Dr. I never have a long wait at my appts. I'm seen on time and visit is not rushed.
Dr. Alvarez is very patient and understanding in answering all my concerns. He is very professional and courteous. Dr. Alvarez staff are friendly and make you feel welcome.
Dr. Alvarez is very professional and caring. He explains everything very thoroughly. I very highly recommend him. Thank you Dr. Alvarez for your help and providing the best possible care.
Excellent operation. Professional, efficient and pleasant personnel, plus great new surroundings. Dr. Alvarez is super-everything i want in a doctor%-knowledgeable, pleasant, with his attention right there on my problem. He has a presence.
Dr. Alvarez is the Best GI doctor. He and his professional staff such as Jonnie B have always treated me well and has made every effort to ensure that my concerns were not only addressed but most importantly had a solution. I highly recommend them.
Dr. Alvarez is an excellent Dr and visit. I had seen another GI doctor for 6 months and was not diagnosed properly and prevented by the office from getting a second opinion. Dr. Alvarez knew what I had in 3 minutes no exaggeration. Treatment is not finished but vastly improved in 6 days with medication. Highly highly recommend seeing him for any GI reason!!
Dr Alvarez is efficient friendly and took Good care of me.
Excellent care -- Treatment was top notch -- Comfortable experience
Dr Alvarez is very professional and provides excellent medical feedback.
Dr Alvarez and his team are so efficient, courteous and overall awesome! They are always prompt and effective communicators every step of the way. I will always go back. Thank you!
All went well with the procedure, staff was very kind and thorough. My only complaint is the Dr was supposed to talk to me before I was discharged, but I never saw him after the procedure and be fore I was discharged.
Terrific staff, easy to get in touch with, and Dr Alvarez is excellent, professional and friendly.
My second time. They make it so nice you almost don’t want to leave. Very professional and extremely great staff.
I had a Gastric Empty Scan (GES) on Wednesday 8 Jan 2025 and the procedure went well at the Northwest Imaging Center. My EGD/colonoscopy is a month later and then two weeks after the procedure I have a follow up with the doctor to find out my symptoms and a way forward. I am coping with my gastric symptoms and I wish there was a better system in place to find a resolution instead of waiting for two months or more to see the doctor