About
Dr. Gary Schaffel, MD, earned his medical degree from the University of Illinois College of Medicine. He completed his residency at Rush University Medical Center, where he received the Outstanding Resident Award. He also holds a master's degree in exercise physiology from the University of Illinois and a Certificate in Clinical Lipidology. Dr. Schaffel is board-certified in Internal Medicine.
His clinical expertise spans cardiac risk factors, stroke prevention, and lifestyle medicine. He has led the Metabolic Syndrome and Cardiac Risk Reduction program at Lake Forest Hospital and served as Chairman of the Department of Internal Medicine Staff. He brings the same commitment to wellness into his personal life, exercising regularly, playing bass guitar, and performing with multiple music groups. Born and raised in the Chicago area, he dedicates his time outside medicine to his synagogue, his wife, and their three daughters.
Education & Training
Medical School
University of Illinois College of Medicine (M.D.)
Residency
Internal Medicine Residency, Rush University Medical Center
Additional Training
Master's degree in exercise physiology, University of Illinois; Certificate in Clinical Lipidology
Certifications
Conditions Treated
Who is Dr. Schaffel right for?
Dr. Schaffel is a strong fit for adults focused on cardiovascular health and disease prevention. Patients managing cardiac risk factors, metabolic syndrome, or stroke risk benefit from his specialized clinical background. His Certificate in Clinical Lipidology makes him well-suited for patients with complex cholesterol concerns. Adults who want a physician who integrates lifestyle factors into their care will find his approach highly compatible.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Schaffel focuses on cardiac risk factors, stroke prevention, metabolic syndrome, and lifestyle medicine. He has deep expertise in lipidology and holds a Certificate in Clinical Lipidology. He also treats a broad range of internal medicine and chronic disease concerns.
Yes, Dr. Schaffel holds board certification in Internal Medicine. He also earned a Certificate in Clinical Lipidology, reflecting his specialized focus on cardiovascular and metabolic health.
Dr. Schaffel earned his medical degree from the University of Illinois College of Medicine. He completed his residency at Rush University Medical Center, where he received the Outstanding Resident Award. He also holds a master's degree in exercise physiology from the University of Illinois.
Dr. Schaffel integrates evidence-based medicine with a strong focus on lifestyle factors. He emphasizes nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress as key components of long-term health. His background in exercise physiology informs how he guides patients toward sustainable wellness habits.
Yes, Dr. Schaffel led the Metabolic Syndrome and Cardiac Risk Reduction program at Lake Forest Hospital. He also served as Chairman of the Department of Internal Medicine Staff, reflecting his leadership within the local medical community.
Yes, Dr. Schaffel holds privileges at Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital and Highland Park Hospital. This allows him to coordinate care for his patients across local hospital settings.
Dr. Schaffel holds a Certificate in Clinical Lipidology, a specialized credential in the management of lipid disorders. He brings that expertise directly into his preventive cardiology and metabolic health work with patients.
Doctor profile last updated March 21, 2026