Choosing a good orthopedic surgeon is important when you face a serious medical issue surrounding your musculoskeletal system. These tips will help you sort through the many doctors in the field to choose the right one.
If you have injured something in your musculoskeletal system,
such as breaking a limb or spraining a muscle, you may need the help of an orthopedic surgeon. Choosing the right one is essential, because the injuries these doctors work with have a lasting impact on your future health and mobility. As you are choosing one of these doctors, keep these things in mind.
Experience
When you need an orthopedic surgeon, you want to find a doctor with a lot of experience, not just in the medical field, but in the area you are seeking help. For instance, if you need help with your knees, choose a doctor with a lot of experience treating knees. When you meet with a doctor, ask specifically about his or her experience.
Education
Find out where the doctor was educated and where the residency occurred. These tidbits of information will help you choose a doctor. You want one that has at least a four year undergraduate degree on top of his or her medical degree, followed by several years of internship and residency.
Talk to Doctors
If you have a family doctor, ask for a referral for an orthopedic surgeon. If you do not currently have a family doctor or want additional advice, ask any friends you have who are in the medical field. The more referrals you get, the better your chances of finding a quality, qualified doctor.
Use the Internet
The Internet can help you find a doctor. Find websites that offer patients the opportunity to review doctors. This can give you valuable insight into the “bedside manner” of a particular doctor. You can also use the Internet to check whether or not the doctor is listed with the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons and the American Medical Association, two professional organizations that oversee doctors in this field.
Ask Friends
You likely know someone who has used the services of an orthopedic surgeon. If not, some of your friends or family likely have relatives who have. Talk to these individuals to find out what they liked and did not like about a particular doctor. If possible, talk to people who had conditions similar to yours. This will ensure that you get the best possible advice about a particular doctor.
Get a Second Opinion
Once you find a doctor, schedule a consultation. After you receive his or her recommendation, schedule another consultation with a doctor who also received good reviews. Compare the results of these consultations, and choose the doctor with the best plan to approach your condition. Remember, your health is at stake, so do not jump into a treatment plan, particularly if it is very invasive or requires surgery, without getting a second, or even a third, opinion.
