Nephrologist Dr. Judd Bauer joins the Methodist family

Judd Bauer, MD, was initially drawn to nephrology because of the complicated medical conditions and challenges it involves. But he quickly realized that what he found fascinating could be confusing or frightening for patients.

“Hearing that you have kidney problems of any type can be a terrifying thing to hear,” said Dr. Bauer, a nephrologist at Methodist Physicians Clinic – Nephrology. “It’s important to know that many kidney problems are either treatable or slow-able so you still have a high quality of life. It's not a death sentence.”

Dr. Bauer can treat a variety of conditions, but he especially enjoys managing chronic kidney disease.

“It’s usually kind of a slow and steady process that really lets you get to know the person you’re taking care of and build relationships,” he said. “It’s important to take the time to listen to someone’s concerns and build that rapport, which leads to trust and a good relationship. Without that, it’s really difficult to take care of somebody or do a good job doing it.”

He’s proud to work at Methodist, a health system that’s committed to “always keeping the best outcome for the patient at the heart of the conversation.”

That’s The Meaning of Care, he said, and it aligns with his own philosophy.

“My goal in any patient encounter is to have them leave thinking, ‘I know more than I did. That visit went as well as it could have. This person cares about what happens.’”

Outside of work, Dr. Bauer can be found spending time with his wife and three dogs. He enjoys traveling, reading and working on their small acreage.