Finding the right orthopedic doctor is crucial for anyone seeking effective treatment for a musculoskeletal condition. As a patient, you deserve the highest quality of care, and through a bit of research, you can assess a doctor’s ability to provide it.
To guide you through this process, we have compiled a list of 10 steps that will help you find the perfect orthopedic doctor for you.
#1 Think About Your Specific Needs
Every patient has their reasons for needing an orthopedic doctor. It could be for neck or back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, or knee arthritis. You have to determine your needs before embarking on your search for an orthopedic doctor, as they can vary in level of experience and specialization.
To help you get started, identify your symptoms and the specific part/area of the body affected. This will help you narrow down your search and find an orthopedic doctor with expertise in your particular area of concern.
#2 Get a Referral from Your Primary Care Doctor
Reach out to your primary care physician for a referral to an orthopedic doctor. Your primary care doctor can provide valuable recommendations based on their knowledge of your medical history and unique preferences. They are also part of a network of medical providers and can discern which orthopedic specialist provides quality treatment and services.
#3 Check for Board Certification
Even if your primary care doctor has recommended a specific doctor, it is still beneficial to conduct your own research. While your primary care doctor’s recommendation carries weight and is based on their knowledge and experience, it is important to remember that healthcare is a personal matter and everyone’s needs and preferences can differ.
Researching a doctor recommended by your primary care physician allows you to gather additional information and make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs. Once you have a list of potential orthopedic doctors, research their credentials, and check their education, residency training, and whether they are board-certified. All of this will help you gauge their expertise and ensure you are choosing a highly qualified orthopedic surgeon.
#4 Check for Fellowship Training and Specialization
Fellowship trained orthopedic surgeons are a cut above the rest when it comes to expertise in their subspecialty. Fellowship trained orthopedic surgeons are better equipped to handle even the most complex of cases. An orthopedist can undergo fellowship training in hand surgery, trauma and sports medicine, joint replacement, the foot and ankle, and the spine.
# 5 Check Their Reputation
Highly skilled and reputable orthopedic doctors will have good word-of-mouth. Nowadays, the easiest way to check a doctor’s reputation is through patient reviews. You can run a search on the doctor’s name on Google, visit the orthopedic practice’s website, and check out websites that feature doctor reviews.
By reading online reviews and patient testimonials, you can gather insight into the doctor’s professionalism and approach, and whether they listen to their patients and take the time to explain things to them.
You should also check if there have been any disciplinary actions or malpractice claims against the doctor.
#6 Check for Professional Memberships
Professional memberships are important for orthopedic doctors, as they provide them with numerous benefits. For example, doctors with memberships in esteemed professional organizations, such as the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), demonstrate a commitment to staying updated in the latest advancements in the field. These memberships offer access to continuing education opportunities, conferences, and research forums, allowing doctors to enhance their knowledge and skills. In addition, professional memberships facilitate networking with peers, fostering collaboration, sharing of best practices, and staying connected to the broader orthopedic community.
#7 Assess Their Communication Style
The only way to know for sure that you and an orthopedic doctor have a compatible communication style is through a face-to-face visit. Compatibility in communication styles is an important consideration, because it is the bedrock of a successful doctor-patient relationship.
During your initial consultation with the doctor, assess their communication style. Are they attentive and willing to listen to your concerns? Do you hear compassion and empathy in their voice? Is the doctor honest and transparent?
#8 Check Out Their Affiliated Hospital/Outpatient Facility
Consider the hospital or medical center where the orthopedic surgeon performs surgery. While you may not think you need to get a procedure done right now, the need for one could arise in the future. The quality of the hospital or outpatient facility is an important factor as it reflects the standards of care provided and is critical to your safety during and after surgery. Try to research the hospital’s or medical center’s reputation, whether they use advanced medical technologies, and how they ensure patient safety and minimize the risk of complications in the facility.
#9 Assess the Clinic’s Location and Ask About Appointment Availability
Assess the accessibility and availability of the orthopedic doctor. Consider factors such as office location, office hours, and availability of the doctor to see patients, including during emergencies. Does the practice have multiple office locations to accommodate patients’ needs? You want an orthopedic doctor who can accommodate you in a pinch, such as when an unexpected injury occurs.
#10 Check Insurance Coverage
Before finalizing your choice of orthopedic doctor, ensure they accept your health insurance plan. Contact your insurance provider to verify whether or not the doctor participates in your insurance network, and ask about the extent of coverage for orthopedic treatments. This step will prevent unexpected financial burdens and ensure that you can receive the necessary care without complications.
By following the steps above, you can streamline the search process and increase your chances of finding a skilled orthopedic doctor.
Top Orthopedic Doctors in Hartford and Tolland Counties, CT & Springfield, MA
At Advanced Orthopedics New England, we have board-certified and fellowship trained orthopedic doctors ready to serve you. Our doctors have different specialties and are members of the most esteemed professional organizations. Best of all, they are committed to your care and treat each patient with respect, kindness, and compassion.
We have several convenient locations throughout Connecticut, as well as a facility in Springfield, Massachusetts, for your convenience. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, call us today at (860) 728-6740.
