How to choose a surgeon?
So, you were told that you need surgery?
A decision to have surgery (major or minor) is definitely not an easy one to make. It is an important healthcare decisions.which involves the patient as well as the family. This decision should be taken seriously.
Most probably your referring physician or primary doctor have recommended a surgeon. They may actually went as far as referring you to one. The good thing about their referral is they have worked or known that surgeon for a period of time. That does not mean that you should go and have the surgery without some homework. Don’t take your surgeon’s qualifications for granted.
Finding the right surgeon can be a challanging task.
Here are some tips and information that will help you make this important decision.
1- Know you Disease
Before you start, you need to know your disease. At least the name of the disease. I cannot even tell you how many patients showed to my office without knowing the reason. The health care information is readily available on the internet and the public library. Search and learn. Read and study. It is your health.
I am not asking you to become a doctor or a physician. but I am asking you to be a responsible patient (custmor). In a different language, you are shopping for the most important decision that may involve your life. For an example, we take time to study the different brands, sizes, colors and prices before we buy a refrigerator. Our health and lives diserve the same attention to details, the very fine details.
Knowing your disease will help you:
- Understand the magnitude of the problem.
- Ask your surgeon the appropriate questions.
- Establish a good rapport with the surgeon.
- Gain the surgeon’s respect.
2- What to look in a Surgeon
- Education and Training
- Speciality Board certification
- The American College of Surgeons Fellowship
- Outcome Data
- Community and Patients Recommendation
- Surgical Volume for that particular operation.
- Hospital Affiliation
