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Stephanie P. Swords, D.O.

Stephanie P. Swords, D.O.

Internal Medicine, Primary Care

Meritas Health

Locations

Meritas Health North Kansas City

2700 Clay Edwards Drive
Ste. 400
North Kansas City, MO 64116

View hours
Monday
8:00am - 4:30pm
Tuesday
8:00am - 4:30pm
Wednesday
8:00am - 4:30pm
Thursday
8:00am - 4:30pm
Friday
8:00am - 4:30pm
Meritas Health North Kansas City

About Me

Biography

I was a college athlete, and, when not working, I stay fit playing tennis, spending time outdoors, and walking with my family and two yellow Labs.
 

Care Philosophy

Medicine can make everything seem big. My job as your primary care doctor is to make your healthcare world feel small and accessible.
 

Area of Interest

Much of what drew me to medicine was seeing a family member face multiple medical issues and what it meant to have someone care for her. I choose primary care because I can partner with and care for patients with a range of conditions and diseases. My interests include asthma, COPD, diabetes management, depression and anxiety, geriatric care, heart failure, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, skin conditions, sleep apnea, thyroid problems, and various joint diseases.

Professional Memberships

  • American College of Physicians
  • American Academy of Pediatrics
  • American Medical Association
  • American Society of Internal Medicine
  • Metropolitan Medical Society of Greater Kansas City
  • Sigma Sigma Phi Osteopathic Service Fraternity

Honors, Awards etc.

  • 2003-2004: University of Missouri Med-Peds Chief Resident
  • Recognized with an 800 Award for 2025 by Reputation.com

 

Education

Residency:
University Of Missouri-Kansas City / Children's Mercy Hospital (2004)

Medical School:
Kansas City University Of Medicine And Bioscience-College Of Osteopathic Medicine (2000)

Board Certifications

American Board of Pediatrics

Provider Ratings

5 out of 5

(131 ratings)

The Patient Satisfaction Rating is an average of all responses to the care provider related questions shown below from our survey. Patients that are treated in outpatient or hospital environments may receive different surveys, and the volume of responses will vary by question.

131 Reviews

06/05/2025

She is the best internal medicine doctor i have ever had

05/29/2025

She's very informative, professionally thorough, communicates well, and I can't think of any defficiencies in her skills for what treatment and guidance I require. I look forward to future checkups and emergency appointments when necessary.

05/17/2025

Dr. Swords is an outstanding physician. She not only is extremely knowledgeable but can talk with her patients in a manner so the patient is comfortable. Also, at the end of the appointment totally understand the plan of care.

05/09/2025

Dr. Swords is thorough without being reactive, efficient without being dismissive. My wife is also her patient, and Dr. Swords has been an ally and advocate during some of our family health issues. An excellent health care provider!

05/08/2025

Dr. Swords has provided me exceptional care for over 10 years

05/08/2025

Dr. Swords is very proffesional and caring with her patients. She answers all my questions and discusses options. She responds to messages and helps me get timely appointments. She’s great!

05/07/2025

Dr. Swords is incredibly thorough and thoughtful with her suggestions to patients. She is one of the best doctors I have ever experienced.

05/02/2025

Dr. Swords is Very caring, empathetic and thorough. She listens , reads my notes , and addresses each concern. Very confident I’m Why do we keep losing this?getting the best treatment possible.

04/30/2025

She is caring and a great listener. I would definitely recommend her if you are looking for a great place with great doctors.

04/17/2025

Great first visit , my dad is 89 She complains everything... that's good 👍👍👍

04/11/2025

First time and all was good

04/03/2025

OMG, first time seeing her and truly left with a lot of good information. Took time to answer my questions. She is now my personal doctor. Thank you, Dr Swords

03/28/2025

Very easy to talk to. Very thorough

03/27/2025

She is very nice .She made me very comfortable I wasn't afraid to ask questions & she wasn't afraid to answer them .

03/26/2025

Dr. Swords is a good Dr. she always takes good care of me and spends time with me. I have been her patient for several years and will be for as long as I have to live.

03/25/2025

Dr.Swords is extraordinary physician. Very knowledgeable. Does not rush you. She really listens and works with you to come up with solutions for your medical problems. If one doesn’t work she will try something different until the problem is resolved.

03/12/2025

Dr. Swords is friendly and always listens to my questions And concerns.

03/10/2025

Dr Swords is knowledgeable, professional, pleasant, and courteous. I would recommend her to anyone as a PC doctor.

02/28/2025

Dr. Swords is great! She addresses all my concerns and is always engaged during my appointment. I know she is a busy doctor but she never seems rushed.

02/26/2025

I have been seeing Dr Swords for 4 years. She has always been thorough, knowledgeable and kind. I strongly recommend her.

02/12/2025

Great with patient. Listens to your concerns.

02/05/2025

Dr Swords is a doctor who listens. She considers different options with input from the patient.

01/16/2025

Dr Swords is everything a Dr should be and more. She is not only knowledgeable and thorough she explains things so you can comprehend them.She has never rushed our visits as has been my experience with some other doctors. She is caring and gentle and down to earth.She has helped me through some rough times.She has good advice and she is a great listener.I like the fact that she considers my input and allows me to be a part in what treatment will work best for me.I feel she is the right fit for me!She is truly a lovely person.

01/16/2025

Dr. Swords is very knowledgeable, open minded and responsive. My medical history and conditions are very complex and challenging for me and any practitioner with whom I work. She navigates my "situation " with ease. It's a pleasure and relief to be able to work with her and her staff.

01/06/2025

Dr Swords is a great doctor. She listens to me and answers any questions I have. She is down to earth, understanding. and caring

12/20/2024

Dr. Swords is the kind of doctor you hope to find. She takes the time to listen and then discusses your options with you.

12/19/2024

Pleased with the doctor patient communication. Clear instructions a prompt appointment.

12/05/2024

Dr . Swords is always kind and thoughtful.

11/28/2024

I’m 61. Had many doctors over the years. There is none better than Dr Swords! Professional knowledgeable caring and sincere.

11/22/2024

Dr swords and her team are top notch. Best primary care. She listens and genuinely cares. Her care team is also excellent.

11/21/2024

Awesome, truly cares about her patients. Been seeing Dr. Swords for close to 10 years.

11/21/2024

Everyone was very nice. Dr Swirds is the best doctor I’ve had. Live her.

11/14/2024

I had a good visit with Doctor swords

11/13/2024

Prompt and courteous service, Dr. Swords asks the questions that matter the most to your health and wellbeing.

11/10/2024

Dr Swords goes above and beyond and is quick getting us what we need! Highest praise for a remarkable doctor!

11/08/2024

She’s very professional and caring!

11/06/2024

Dr. Swords listens well and asks pertinent questions. She is not a 15-minute in and out the door doctor. She takes her time and is great with follow-up. I have recommended her to others and have friends that see her is their primary care physician. All speak highly of her!

11/06/2024

Dr Swords always gives me time & listens to my concerns.

11/04/2024

Stephanie is a very caring doctor. She takes her time and she asks alot of questions. I feel she is very thorough.

10/31/2024

Dr Swords is always very thorough about my health and preventive health. She shows sincere caring. She is a very smart and knowledgeable Dr.... I trust her with my health. Thank you Dr Swords. 👍

10/25/2024

Nothing but praise here - Dr. Swords is an excellent doctor! She is friendly, precise and very efficient. Every visit has been a helpful and pleasant experience.

10/25/2024

She is the best doctor. Pleasant, to be with. Knows her stuff and listens to you. I would recommend her to everyone!

10/16/2024

Very bright, very caring, her staff are quality people.

10/07/2024

Doctor Swords is the best dr. I haven’t ever had.

10/04/2024

Great doctor

10/02/2024

I am very comfortable with the staff and Dr Sword. Dr. Sword is compassionate and knowledgeable.

09/30/2024

Dr Swords is always very attentive to what you are saying. She then answers your questions and takes whatever action you both agree on. She is a pleasure to work with to reach our mutual goals.

09/30/2024

I was in and out quickly Dr. Swords has been my doctor for years. She is Awesomemorific. Best Doctor ever.

09/27/2024

An excellent doctor, patient, professional and helpful with a welcoming attitude

09/20/2024

She is very thorough and understanding. She gets to the route of the problem and explains all details with patience. I am so thankful to find such a caring professional. To my upmost respect to you, Doctor….Thank you.

09/05/2024

Dr. Swords filled out paper work for my mother, her patient. I expected it to take longer. She was getting it completed the day I dropped it off!

09/04/2024

Dr Stephanie Swords was my doctor for years before she left the facility where I was going. I am thrilled that I have an upcoming appointment with her as I found her again! She listens and really cares about your health and is just an overall great doctor!

08/29/2024

Stephanie Swords has been my internist for the last several years, she ask questions, listens and treats you like an equal. She’s thorough, knowledgeable and compassionate. Highly recommend.

08/23/2024

Dr Swords is very thoroughly and personable.

08/08/2024

She is very knowledgeable and really listens. Takes the time to make sure she is fully informed before making decisions. I have several specialists on my care team. She is the quarterback and does a great job.

08/07/2024

Dr. Swords is the best! She listens to every word you say and never rushes. And explains everything so well. I may have to drive a little farther than my last Dr. but it’s worth every extra mile.

07/26/2024

Dr Swords has an approachable demeanor: friendly but professional. I appreciate her 'ask me anything' attitude!

07/26/2024

She answered my many questions, giving me all the time I needed. She has an awesome "bedside" manner.

07/19/2024

Dr. Swords is the best doctor. We love her and the care she gives us is exceptional. She takes patient input, discusses options, and always reviews what you’ve decided together. That’s what we need! PLUS, she always when and who to refer to and what tests to order. She understands that relationships are basic to the care she is able to give her patients and she is great at building those. She truly cares. She’s the best.

07/19/2024

Friendly, knowledgeable and attentive.

07/02/2024

Dr. Swords is so kind and a great listener. She wants to know how you’re feeling and understand what works/doesn’t work for you. She’s willing to try new things, but also doesn’t force medicine on you. I am so happy I found her. I would recommend her to anyone!

06/26/2024

My recent appointment with Dr. Swords was extremely pleasant. She is a good listener and is quick to understand and offer suggestions. She works wonders with an anxious patient.

06/26/2024

Total dedication to thorough care.

06/05/2024

Dr. Swords is ALWAYS professional, kind, courteous & obviously cares A LOT about her patients. She's a dynamic doctor that I've been going to for decades who ALWAYS goes above & beyond for each patient EVERY. SINGLE. TIME. You definitely can't go wrong with having her as your PCP. Even some of my family have seen firsthand how she has treated me & therefore have switched to seeing her! She's so good that she's booked out for months.

05/29/2024

Dr. Swords is so present in the moment when I see her. In spite of all the craziness in healthcare - she is not distracted!

05/14/2024

I absolutely love my doctor. She has been so kind and generous with her time and resources to help find my reason for chronic pain. She works with you side by side and is very attentive and compassionate. Thank you Dr. Swords for not giving up on me....I am forever in your grace.

05/13/2024

Dr. Swords was first my mother’s doctor. I was so impressed by her attentiveness & genuine care for her, that I started to see her myself this year. Dr. Swords is so kind and takes the time to get to know you… asking and answering ALL the questions. Wish there were more doctors like her!

04/28/2024

Dr Sword is very attentive to my needs

04/19/2024

This is our first visit with Dr Swords and definitely not our last. She is very attentive, kind and caring. After the doctors we have had lately she is an absolute dream! Cannot thank her enough. It is a definite pleasure to finally meet a caring physician.

04/18/2024

We love Dr. Swords. She is always patient and kind. She really gets to know and understand her patients and their concerns. She makes sure you understand everything. She is also super easy to reach and responsive on the app.

04/17/2024

Dr. Swords is undoubtedly the most exceptional primary care physician I have ever had the pleasure of being treated by. Her expertise and compassion are unparalleled, and I am constantly amazed by the level of care and attention she provides to her patients. I am grateful for the dedicated time she takes to truly listen and understand each individual's needs and concerns. Dr. Swords goes above and beyond to ensure that her patients receive the best possible care, making her a truly outstanding healthcare provider.

04/12/2024

Great memory and instantaneous follow-through

04/05/2024

I think Dr. Swords is exceptional. She kindly responded to my questions and concerns. I would be pleased to recommend her to friends and family. Ann Ingalls

04/04/2024

Always listens she knows us and treats us well.

03/07/2024

Dr. Swords is a great listener and communicator. Never feel rushed in my visits. She addresses concerns and provides excellent feedback and suggestions. Very professional and knowledgeable. Her demeanor and bedside manner are wonderful.

03/06/2024

Completely comfortable. Dr. was charming and professional

02/22/2024

Dr. Swords is always extremely thorough and is genuinely compassionate. She and her staff are incredible!

02/04/2024

She is always thourough with the care she gives. She isnt impatient with her time or the amount of health questions she has to answer. I feel my health success is important to her and she understands that life happens and personal responsibility sometimes hinders medical choices. I never feel chastised or rejected for not being compliant. Honesty with her is non-problematic.

01/05/2024

Took my elderly aunt to see Dr Swords. The staff was very polite, pleasant and professional. The nurse was wonderful and took good care of my aunt. Dr. Swords took time to get to know her and asked appropriate questions. She even sent a message through portal saying to message her if we had any additional questions. Everyone was great. The only downfall is that we had to wait 6 months to get in. Dr. Swords came highly recommended, so that's why we chose her. My aunts previous Dr moved an hour away and we could no longer see him.

12/28/2023

Dr Swords is always attentive and besides being thorough with the medical visit, takes time to talk about your personal life.

10/28/2023

I started to see Dr Swords right after she started practicing medicine, and have followed her to her practice at Meritas.Dr Swords is very caring. She takes the time to listen to your concerns and address them appropriately. She advocates for what is needed for her patients and is not afraid to have sometimes hard conversations. I would recommend Dr Swords to anyone who asks.

10/28/2023

Dr. Swords has been my provider for more than 15 years. She is smart, compassionate, and truly listens.

10/25/2023

Dr. Swords really understands her patients especially my husband who has Dementia. She relates to him on his own ground and lets him talk to her without making him feel like he is a stranger in his own body. We love her a lot

10/25/2023

She’s the kind of doctor that other doctors trust and go to. She listens to me and really does the right things for my situation. I’m very thankful for her♥️

10/23/2023

I feel like ww are getting on the right track with my answers in anxiety and depression. I will mail info about Amare products called Happy Juice too as well.

10/05/2023

Very responsive to her patients.

10/05/2023

Dr. Swords is amazing. She is kind, patient, extremely knowledgeable and is a very good listener. I would recommend her to a family member, friend, or anyone without the slightest hesitation. She really is the best! I’m so grateful she is my doctor.

09/21/2023

I couldn’t be happier with Dr. Swords! Dr Swords and her staff are friendly caring and top notch!

09/17/2023

I miss Dr.Swords I was her patient in Indep . But had to get my insurance changed so I could see her at her new location in North Kansas City . I’m trying to get back in to see her I need her back as my doctor I’m going down in my health since I haven’t seen her . Hope to get in to see her soon before it’s to late . I have to wait cause I’m a new patient to the North Kansas City location . See you as soon as I can Dr. Swords .You truly don’t no what you have till it’s gone .

09/08/2023

Dr. Swords is a knowledgeable, caring and understanding care provider. I have been pleasantly pleased to have been referred to her after my previous primary care provider retired two years ago.

07/12/2023

Dr Swords is a wonderful Doctor. She is very thorough but what I like most is that she takes the time to actually talk to and get to know her patients.

07/07/2023

Dr.Swords is a great DR. She make u laugh if u are down, she answer all of your questions, and take good care of all her patients ,she took care of my mom and dad also, they love her as much as we do I wouldn’t go anywhere else Dianna

06/30/2023

Dr. Swords is awesome! She was kind and took the time to get to know me and answer all of my questions. She is a great physician and I highly recommend her 😊

06/05/2023

Dr. Swords always takes time to talk and listen to me. I would definitely recommend her.

06/02/2023

Dr swords been my doctor for almost 18 years she the best take time to find what going with you great listener she provides excellent service

05/17/2023

Dr. Swords is a very capable physician, a good listener and very responsive to any communication addressed to her. She works well with seniors and is sensitive to their needs.Appointments are scheduled so that she can take time with her patients.I highly recommend her as a primary care physician.

05/05/2023

Staff was great. She took her time with me and went above and beyond!

04/21/2023

I feel very lucky to have found Dr. Swords. She is very knowledgeable and thoughtful of me as a female patient. I can’t recommend her enough!

04/15/2023

Everything went well. Easy to find and did not have to wait but a few minutes.

04/11/2023

When she left the practice where she was years back I was not happy. I like her manner of speaking and educating me and I was NOT happy to be losing that history with my primary care physician. She never made me feel like she judged. She tried to help. All physicians would do well to treat their patients as respectfully as she does.

04/05/2023

She is amazing. Takes her time, very thorough. Cares.

02/06/2023

Best Doctor around. She used to be with St Luke's. I seen her there first and followed her to Meritas. She makes sure àll qúestions are answered. Sweet and caring.

02/06/2023

Dr Stephanie Swords is a wonderful, caring health professional. She listens to concerns, is very responsive and proactive. I am very happy to have her as my primary care physician.

02/03/2023

Dr. Swords has been my physician for 13 years, and there is a reason for that! She is thorough, warm, caring and she listens. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for excellent care and interpersonal skills!

01/23/2023

Best doctor ever!! So sweet and does a great job.

01/23/2023

I was very pleased with meeting and my office visit with Dr. Stephanie Swords. She took the time to listen to my concerns and came up with a plan on how to resolve and or treat my concerns. I'm looking forward to my follow-up visit with her. I believe this is the beginning of a wonderful Dr/patient relationship.

01/13/2023

Dr. Swords is wonderful! Very thorough and took as much time as needed to discuss my health with me. Highly recommend!

01/09/2023

She takes plenty of time with you and explains all your questions.

12/23/2022

She is an amazing doctor. Very friendly and very comfortable to talk to. When going through a procedure she makes sure to talk through it explaining what she’s doing so it’s comforting.

12/22/2022

Dr. Swords was very gracious in answering all my medical questions & patient! She has a way of not letting her patients feel worried about things. Very comforting!

12/16/2022

My first visit with Dr. Swords. Great bedside manner; explained everything thoroughly. Allowed me to ask any questions that I had. So happy to have been referred to her.

12/13/2022

Dr Swords is very personable. I would recommend her to anyone. She always takes her time and answers every question. I wish more doctors were like her.

12/09/2022

Thorough compassionate professional focused on her patients. She is truly an amazing doctor!!

12/05/2022

Dr. Swords is awesome!! She takes her time with you and listens to you!!

12/05/2022

They always take good care of me and see that I have my meds on time

12/02/2022

Dr. Swords takes the time to listen to you. She then follows up with you to make sure you are doing OK. So glad I found her!

12/01/2022

Dr. Swords has been caring for my Dad for the last year. She is very good at getting back to me quickly and her assistant is too. They’re very helpful with the Telehealth visits as my Dad isn’t very great at walking distances anymore.

11/21/2022

Dr Stephanie Swords is awesome. She always listens to your concerns and questions. She explains everything thoroughly and genuinely is invested in your health. I trust her completely with my health.

11/15/2022

Dr Stephanie Swords is a wonderful Dr. Love the way she is so intuitive to mine and others needs. Just hard to find drs with that kind of perception.

11/10/2022

Staff is nice, DR. Swords explaines situations in a good manner.

09/19/2022

My 80 year old mother loves this doctor! (I love her staff). Their response rate is awesome compared to other offices. I left a message and was called back promptly within an hour after leaving a message- But I can't say the same for other practices! I am still waiting on a return call from my mom's Orthopedic staff needing paperwork sent to our insurance company - (it's been 3 days) When I didn't hear back, I reached out to doctor Swords staff seeing if they could provide the same records - they handled immediately! Thank you for taking the time to return calls!

04/24/2021

I have been trying to find a PCP since my PCP of +45 years retired over six years ago. Dr. Swords is the 3rd dr in those 6 years I’ve seen and I believe I have FINALLY found the “one”. I came to my appointment with a list and she spent an hour with me going over that list as well as my past medical history. She made great observations as well as many great suggestions in how she views moving forward with my healthcare. This was only my first visit and I only foresee each one getting better than the last. Dr. Swords is a good listener, very kind and compassionate and takes your views and suggestions into account with great consideration.

03/03/2021

I have been a patient of Dr Swords for over 15 years. She is excellent about explaining everything to you, Patiently answers every question, never in a hurry to rush off to the next patient. Very caring, and wonderful bedside manner. She as gotten me through two severe health crisis, I won't see anyone else.

01/20/2020

We really appreciate Dr. Swords. She is caring, competent, and professional. My insurance keeps trying to give me another Dr, but we are sticking with Dr, Swords!

04/23/2019

I was dreading have to switch to a new Dr because I got new insurance. When I met Dr Swords, I was so worried about having a new Dr. When she walked in the room, she was so caring and I was comforted immediately . She takes time with her patients and truly cares about them. I travel for work and she will work with me if i can’t get into see her when I’m sick. She is one of the sweetest people and one of the best Drs I have ever had. I will continue to stay with her forever!

03/17/2019

Exceptional first appointment

07/20/2018

She's the best. I have a son that has seen her since he was 6 years old. As he matured I asked him if he would prefer a male physician. He was adamant that he continue with Dr. Swords as he feels very comfortable with her. She is very professional but also compassionate and caring. He started seeing her when we lived north of the river. We now live on the Plaza and pass three other hospitals on our way to Liberty Clinic. It is worth the drive!!!

07/19/2018

Our family is pleased with Dr. Swords and her staff. Her nurse and MA are top notch. They are friendly and professional, quick to return phone calls.

06/26/2018

I always feel like I am her only patient. She is caring and compassionate.

09/13/2017

DR Swords is one of the best Dr I have ever had. She is truly interested in you as a person. She knows me and my husband who also goes to her. She spends more time with you than any other Dr I have gone to. Her nurse is the best!! She always calls and let's you know any test results as soon as they get them. DR Swords always leaves openings in her daily schedule to provide for urgent appointments. I can't say enough good things about this Dr and her office staff. I am Thankful to have found her

09/30/2016

Dr. Swords likes to discharge patients. After seeing her on a Monday, she told me to call her if the issue continued or worsened later in the week. When I called her nurse said she could not see me. I tried to kindly explain that I did not need to see her but that she told me to call her if the symptoms got worse. The next thing I knew on the following Monday I was being told I could not only not see her but I could no longer use the practice which me & my family had used for over 15 yrs.
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