For joint replacement surgery, you will need to find a qualified orthopedic surgeon. Choosing the right doctor can be difficult, and when it comes to surgery, you want to make sure you are making the best decision possible. There are some important questions to consider when selecting a doctor for joint replacement. These considerations will help you make an informed decision and find the right doctor for your needs.
Instructions
Choosing a Doctor for Joint Replacement
1. Check your insurance coverage. Find out what surgeons and hospitals are covered by your insurance. Joint replacement surgery is expensive, and you will want to limit your out-of-pocket costs as much as possible.
2. Ask for recommendations. Your primary care physician should have at least one or two recommendations. You may also want to ask friends and family if they are familiar with any good doctors in the area.
3. Find out about the surgeon's education, experience and qualifications for joint replacement surgery. Orthopedic surgeons cover a wide range of conditions, so you may want to look for a surgeon who specializes in joint replacement surgery or at least has extensive experience with it.
4. Consider the location. Look into where the doctor's office is located as well as what hospital you would use and where you would need to go for any additional tests. Depending on the joint you are having replaced, you may be in the hospital for several days, so choose a facility you are comfortable with. You may also need physical therapy after the surgery, so ask about these services as well.
5. Inquire about the hours of service available. Can you schedule appointments for evenings or weekends if these are the most convenient times for you? How long will you have to wait to get in to see this particular doctor? If you are in a lot of pain, you won't want to wait a long time for your first consultation. However, the best doctors are often the ones with the longest waiting lists, so you will need to weigh the pros and cons in your particular situation.
6. Investigate the doctor's background. Once you have narrowed your search down to a few specific doctors, visit the website of the Administrators in Medicine for information on any disciplinary actions or lawsuits that the doctor may have been involved in.
Tags: replacement surgery, Doctor Joint, Doctor Joint Replacement, joint replacement, joint replacement surgery, right doctor, will need