Finding the right orthopedic surgeon is as important as seeking treatment for your painful orthopedic conditions. An orthopedic surgeon is a medical doctor who receives advanced training and is skilled in providing surgical and non-surgical treatments for injuries and conditions of the musculoskeletal system.
If you have never been to an orthopedic surgeon before, finding one can be challenging for you. However, with the right knowledge and information, it does not have to be. Here’s a guide to help you find the best orthopedic surgeon in Raleigh, Apex, & Durham, NC.
#1 Use Search Engines
One good way to find the best orthopedic surgeon in your area is to look up search engines Simply type “best orthopedic surgeon near me”on the search bar of the search engine of your choice and hit the search button. You should be able to see a list of orthopedic surgeons in your area along with the links to their practice’s website.
You can also find an orthopedic surgeon in your area by searching online directories, and websites of reputable medical associations related to orthopedics, such as the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), and the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons (AAHKS).
#2 Seek Recommendations
Another good resource is to seek recommendations from your social circle, like your family, friends, or colleagues who had seen an orthopedic surgeon for an orthopedic issue like yours before. Besides your social circle, you can also get a referral to a reliable orthopedic surgeon from your primary care physician.
#3 Research Credentials
Once you have a list of potential orthopedic surgeons, research and verify their credentials and qualifications. Ensure that the orthopedic surgeon you choose is board certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgeons(ABOS). It is also advisable to check the specialization of the orthopedic surgeon in subspecialties of orthopedics like hip and knee replacement, hand surgery, shoulder surgery, etc.
Consider any malpractice sanctions and lawsuits orthopedic surgeons may have faced.
#4 Consider Experience
The experience of the orthopedic surgeon also matters as it plays a significant role in their ability to handle complex orthopedic problems and high-risk cases. Therefore, choose an orthopedic doctor with years of experience in performing the procedure you might need.
#5 Check Location
During orthopedic treatment, you may have to see your orthopedic surgeon several times. Therefore, it is a cost-effective and time-saving decision to choose an orthopedic surgeon whose practice or hospital is located near your home or workplace. Choosing an orthopedic surgeon who is close by also ensures you can make it to all appointments and won’t have to cancel or reschedule your appointments.
#6 Consider the Quality of Hospital the Surgeon is Affiliated With
The quality of the hospital the orthopedic surgeon is affiliated with also matters because top-rated hospitals are well-equipped with advanced equipment, have better success rates, and have fewer complication rates. Therefore, choose a surgeon affiliated with a top-hospital or surgery center, and preferably a facility to specializes in orthopedics as well.
#7 Read Online Reviews
Reading what previous patients say about an orthopedic surgeon can give you an insight into a surgeon’s competency and mannerisms. This also gives you information about orthopedic surgeons’ way of practicing, their approach to treatment, their friendliness with staff and patients,and ease of getting appointments.
#8 Consider Your Insurance Coverage
To reduce the out-of-pocket cost for your treatment or to receive the most of your insurance plan, choose an orthopedic surgeon who shares your insurance plan. Contact your insurance provider to get a list of surgeons who come under your plan and choose one from the list. It is best to review the billing regulation to avoid any hidden costs at the end.
#9 Make an Initial Appointment
Once you have drawn up a list of potential orthopedic surgeons and compiled all the necessary information about them,the next step is to call their practice and set up an appointment with them.
During your appointment with your potential orthopedic surgeon, ask them questions or concerns you have in your mind about the your treatment options and the services offered at the practice. Take note of how well the surgeon answers your questions, how much time they spend with you, and if they consider your treatment preferences.
Best Orthopedic Surgeon in Raleigh, Apex,and Durham, NC
If you are in search of a highly trained and skilled orthopedic surgeon for your unique orthopedic problems and are located in Raleigh, Apex, and Durham, North Carolina, look no further. Our board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Brett Gilbert, has built an excellent reputation for providing high-quality individualized care for a comprehensive range of orthopedic problems. Our orthopedic surgeon is also an affiliate of top-rated hospitals and surgery centers in North Carolina.
If you would like to make a one-on-one consultation with our surgeon, contact us today at (919) 788-8797, fill out our online appointment request form,or you can self-schedule your appointment here.
