Are you on the hunt for a trustworthy orthopedic doctor? Perhaps you recently suffered from a sports injury or you are coping with arthritis. If you have issues with your musculoskeletal system, getting the help of an orthopedic doctor may be the solution you are looking for.
Finding a reliable orthopedist can be a challenge. Here’s how to find a qualified orthopedic doctor in your area.
Get Referrals
It’s best to begin by prioritizing referrals to create a general list of your options. Your best resources for referrals are your primary care doctor and your inner circle of friends and family.
From Your Primary Care Doctor
Your doctor may recommend that you visit an orthopedic doctor for a specific concern. To help with your search, ask your doctor for a referral list. Chances are, they already have a network to turn to, or they know the best orthopedists in your area.
From Family And Friends
Firsthand experience from someone you trust is generally a good source of information. Ask your friends and family if they have visited an orthopedic doctor in the past or if they know someone who has. Your inner circle can also be a good source of tips and recommendations when it’s time to narrow down your selection.
Assess The Orthopaedic Doctor’s Credentials
When it comes to the field of medicine, it’s vital to assess a doctor’s experience and qualifications. After all, certification and experience can help ease the worries of patients because it ensures that their provider knows what they’re doing. We all want someone who knows what they’re doing and with years of experience on their hands.
To help with your assessment, keep in mind the following credentials to get to know an orthopedic doctor better:
Board Certification
The standard for orthopedic doctors is set by the AOBOS or the American Osteopathic Board of Orthopedic Surgery. It includes:
- Graduating from an accredited college
- Having undergone a residency for five years
- Owning a license to practice in a specific state
- Abiding by a strict code of ethics
A doctor can only be eligible for the boards once they comply with the requirements above. Always go with a doctor who is board-certified.
Further Experience And Training
A doctor’s expertise does not stop once they pass the board exams. The world is evolving every day. Therefore, they should stay committed to being on top of the up-to-date advancements in the field of orthopedics. A doctor can only achieve this through continuous learning and hands-on training.
In addition to this, an orthopedic doctor may also opt to specialize in specific fields aside from general orthopedics. This can include:
- Arthroscopic surgery
- Joint reconstruction
- Sports medicine
- Traumatology
Affiliations
A doctor’s affiliations can help them be more accessible to patients. Furthermore, if they choose to partner with well-known hospitals and clinics, they expose themselves to a variety of orthopedic conditions. The more experience they have in the field, the more likely they are to accurately handle your health concerns.
When it comes to continuous research in their field, being part of a recognized professional organization puts them on better ground. These groups provide a channel to discuss or observe new medical trends. Being part of an organization means that a doctor has better access to the latest medical information available.
Read Patient Testimonials
If a clinic’s website has patient testimonials readily available, it can be an advantage for you. Read what other patients have to say about your selected doctor. You can find out helpful information, such as:
- Experience with scheduling appointments
- Doctor’s communication skills
- Office or clinic environment
- Treatment variety and effectiveness
- Patients’ experiences
Get To Know The Doctor
Schedule a consultation with your potential orthopedic doctor to meet and get to know them.
During the session, don’t hesitate to ask all the questions you need to be answered. You want a doctor who is accommodating of all your inquiries. This conversation can help enlighten you regarding a doctor’s attitude and approach to patients’ concerns.
Working Collaboratively With The Doctor
One of the most crucial things to consider when selecting your doctor is how well they can collaborate with you. This includes how a doctor approaches or handles certain conditions and how effectively you and your doctor communicate.
Your doctor should make you feel comfortable, and you should feel safe asking questions about your medical concerns.
Best Orthopaedic Doctors In Farmington Hill, MI
When it comes to orthopedic conditions, you only want the best quality care. Finding a good orthopedist can be difficult, but it’s vital to remember to look for referrals, qualifications, and how well they communicate with you.
Here at Tri County Orthopedics, we have a team of board-certified and reliable orthopedic surgeons and doctors who are happy to help you. They have a wide range of qualifications and years of experience on their hands. You can now be at ease knowing that you’re in good hands.
Want to schedule an appointment? Reach us today via our online contact form. You can also call our friendly staff at (248) 474-5575. We’re excited to provide you with the best orthopedic care!
