Appointments and wait times · Patient experiences
5 five-star reviews for Dr. Leonel Hunt discuss appointments and wait times. Read their words, learn what mattered to them, and bring the questions that matter to you to your next visit.
Read the full patient accounts and original sources below. Review totals reflect the source ratings available here.
A person behind your care
Dr. Leonel Hunt is a nationally recognized, fellowship-trained spine surgeon with deep expertise in both adult and pediatric deformity, motion-preserving techniques, and minimally invasive spine surgery. From advanced cervical disc replacements to complex spinal cord injury protocols, Dr. Hunt has helped shape the evolution of modern spine care—especially in shifting major procedures to same-day, outpatient settings.
He treats patients of all ages and backgrounds, with a particular focus on helping older kids, young adults, and aging patients stay active longer. His philosophy is clear: care should be personal, precise, and focused on the whole patient—not just the scans. Whether it’s a small incision for a fast recovery or a complex reconstruction for a life-changing result, patients trust his skill, honesty, and unwavering commitment to doing what’s best for them.
For more than a decade, Dr. Hunt served as Director of Spine Trauma at Cedars-Sinai. Today, no longer in that role, he continues to lead with empathy, innovation, and impact—one patient at a time.
Outside the OR, he’s a self-described exercise enthusiast, foodie, globe-trotter, and podcast host.
Bring what matters to you
An appointment involves more than a date on the calendar. These reviews describe scheduling, availability and time spent waiting.
In their own words
These are individual experiences. A topic mention does not establish who performed a procedure, medical suitability or a typical result.
This collection shows written reviews rated 4 or 5 stars that mention appointments and wait times. You can read every rating and written review on the full clinician profile.
5 written reviews
Highest rated first · Newest within each rating
I am a 30 year retired Navy Master Chief who has had 2 previous back surgeries, and now awaiting my 3rd. The plan is extensive and I am concerned. I appreciate the positive reviews given to Dr. Hunts expertise, and I am going to make an appointment for a second opinion.
Leonel Hunt, MD
Dr Leonel Hunt is an excellent surgeon and he has a great staff! I was suffering from an excruciating pain due to a torn disc that was pinching my nerves. My husband had called many surgeons in order to make an appointment for a potential surgery and all have given him sometimes within 2 months of wait. His staff was very kind after my husband was explaining how much pain I am suffering to email him as they were talking over the phone to see if he can see me soon. I was in his office 5 days after! It was obvious that he had studied my MRI images before coming into the room because he knew what exactly was wrong with me and spotted the areas I was suffering with pain. His bed manner and presents and how involved he was with me throughout was remarkable. I am very grateful I picked and trusted him. I am 7 weeks post-op and feel amazing. Thank you so much Dr. Hunt!
Leonel Hunt, MD
Dr. Hunt and his office are terrific. I had had great pain and trouble walking any distance. He quickly diagnosed my problem, spinal stenosis, with a vertebrae pressing against my spinal cord. He was able to schedule surgery around my work and it was quick and the result was excellent.In and out the same day, and a speedy recovery. I could not be happier and recommend him to any friends in need.
Leonel Hunt, MD
Dr Hunt is extremely rude and dismissive. Based on my experience and other reviews, unless you need a major surgery, Dr Hunt doesn’t want to see you. The final straw was showing up to an appointment and having the receptionist tell me that I had called and cancelled my appointment because I wanted to see pain management. I had waited months for this appointment and do not want to see pain management. They offered to reschedule almost a month away. I told them not to worry about it, I would go somewhere else.
Leonel Hunt, MD
I really had high expectations because someone else had recommended him. Poor follow up. It's been over a month and I am still waiting for a call back after leaving 4+ messages. I am very disappointed.
Leonel Hunt, MD
A little more understanding
Choosing your care
A short symptom story, the right records, and a few priorities can help your first orthopedic visit end with a plan you understand. You do not need to arrive with your own diagnosis.
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