Orthopedic surgeons are bone and joint specialists who can help treat your musculoskeletal problems. Looking for the best surgeon can be a complicated process, especially when you have active problems with your knee, hip, shoulder, or other parts of your body, causing you to feel an urgency to select a physician fast.
Finding the right doctor will not only get you the proper care, from diagnosis to treatment but will also keep you at ease through your condition. To help you look for the best orthopedic surgeon for your condition, here are the answers to some frequently asked questions.
Where Do I Start?
Once you have understood your condition, get or ask for a referral from your primary healthcare provider. Getting a referral from your physician will help you find the perfect surgeon for your problem. Some conditions may need a specialist to address your specific needs. Your primary physician knows your needs the most as they are familiar with your history. Your doctor may also have access to their own network.
It’s also helpful to get referrals from friends and family who have first-hand experience of your condition or the surgery you need. Patient reviews of clinics in your area may also provide you with an overview of certain orthopedic surgeons. Talking to them or simply reading their online reviews may help you understand their medical journey from diagnosis to treatment and healing.
These referrals can help you understand how their practice operates, and whether it is organized and friendly to patients. If they receive positive feedback on things like ease of setting up appointments, communication, and overall environment, they may be a good candidate to consider.
What Specialist Do I Need?
Orthopedics is a specialty but depending on the condition or area of injury, you might need to determine what sub-specialist you need to see.
Orthopedic sub-specialties include:
- General orthopedics
- Foot and ankle surgery
- Hip and knee surgery
- Shoulder and elbow surgery
- Trauma surgery
- Spine surgery
- Hand surgery
- Sports medicine
- Rehabilitation
You want an orthopedic surgeon whose expertise is precisely related to your condition in order to ensure you get the best care possible.
How Do I Know That The Doctor Is Capable?
Your orthopedic surgeon should have the license and certification to treat your injury. To check these licenses, credentials, specialties, and education, visit the online portal of the American Board of Orthopedic Surgeons. You may also check training, malpractice history, and complication rates by accessing medical reviews or state websites.
Does The Cost Fit My Budget?
When looking for a surgeon, it is practical to consider the cost of surgery and treatment. Maximize your insurance and check the extent of the coverage with your insurance company. Also, consider if the doctor participates with your insurance plan, but always look at their experience and credentials first.
Is The Location Of The Clinic Accessible?
The overall journey from surgery to recovery will require several trips to your doctor. You may lose some of your mobility after surgery, so consider a clinic near you. Finding the best orthopedic surgeon also means accessibility to you and your family, so they can assist you in a speedy recovery.
What Should I Ask The Orthopedic Surgeon?
When you have your list of options for your orthopedic surgeon, meet with them in person and find out who you are most comfortable with. After a set appointment, ask the doctor questions such as:
- What are the procedures you often recommend?
- How soon are procedures scheduled?
- How frequently do you perform a particular procedure?
- What other treatment options are available?
Doctors understand that their patients should be comfortable with them and expect that you, as a potential patient, will ask questions. They must be able to help you fully understand procedures, treatments, and the recovery process. Use the appointment to share what you want to be achieved and align with each other. If they fail to answer questions in detail, move on to the next doctor on the list.
Orthopedic Surgeons In San Antonio, Texas
Orthopedic surgery may be frightening at first but with the right surgeon to walk you through, it can be more pleasant than expected.
If you’re looking for an excellent orthopedic surgeon, look no further than the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine. Together with our finest healthcare providers and a set of equally experienced and caring staff, we will make sure to give you the best health care for your needs.
If you want to know more about our services, you may give us a call at (210) 692-7400. You may also secure an appointment by using our online appointment request form.
