How to Choose a Hand Surgeon
How to Choose a Hand Surgeon
If you’re ever in the unfortunate position of having to find a hand surgeon, you may find yourself a bit overwhelmed by the process. Especially choosing the right hand surgeon.
Fortunately for you, choosing a hand surgeon doesn’t have to be difficult. If you focus your search on a few key areas found below, you should have no problem choosing a hand surgeon.
Understand the Hand Surgeon’s Breadth of Education and Experience
Not all hand surgeons have the same level of education or experience within their fields. When looking at a hand surgeon, take a look at their board certifications: hand surgery, orthopedic surgery, and orthopedic sports medicine. Also check the universities attended, degrees and years in practice and main areas of expertise.
Find a Hand Surgeon With a Specialization in Your Injury
The hand is incredibly complex and as a result many hand surgeons specialize in certain areas of the hand wrist, forearm and elbow. After your initial diagnosis, it is important to find a hand surgeon with experience in the care of your hand injury or condition.
Does the Hand Surgeon Offer Convenient Hours
With qualifications out of the way, the rest of choosing a hand surgeon amounts to working with the doctor. To begin, make sure your hand surgeon has convenient hours that fit into your schedule and that the hand surgeon has the time you need to take you on as a patient.
Assess the Hand Surgeon’s Bedside Manner
You’re going to have to see the hand surgeon multiple times, so make sure you feel comfortable with how the surgeon treats you, explains situations to you, as well as the amount of time they spent answering all of your questions. Surgery can be uncomfortable, so work with someone you like and trust. Will the doctor, himself provide your pos-operative care, or will it be his assistant?
Make Sure They Take Your Payment Method
Not all hand surgeons accept the same methods of payment, and some are more flexible than others. It goes without saying that you must make sure you can pay your hand surgeon for their services. This is something you should verify early on in the relationship.
When choosing a hand surgeon it is also wise to ask your primary doctor, friends and family for referrals. The first hand accounts of actually working with a hand surgeon are invaluable in the selection process. It is appropriate to ask your prospective hand surgeon for prior patients’ testimonials to read and for patients with similar conditions to speak with.