10 Tips to Consider for Choosing the Best Gastroenterologists in the Vicinity
If you are having problems with your digestive system, then you must visit a gastroenterologist. Gastroenterologists are doctors specialized and trained in treating conditions related to the stomach, esophagus, gall bladder, pancreas, bile duct, colon, and small intestine. Some doctors also specialize in treating motility disorders, such as moving food, liquid, and waste through the digestive system. Here are a few tips that can help you with your search for the best gastroenterologists near me.
Ask your primary care doctor
Request a referral from your primary healthcare provider or physician. As your doctor knows all about your medical condition, symptoms, and treatment plan, they can refer you to a specialist that can best handle your case. So, your primary care doctor for the query ‘best gastroenterologists near me’ will be the first step.
Recommendations
If you are comfortable discussing your health matters with family, friends, or coworkers, then ask them for recommendations. A recommended doctor helps to establish trust, reliability, and credibility.
Learn about the doctor’s credentials
Researching the credentials and checking the Board Certification of your chosen gastroenterologist is the next step when looking for the best gastroenterologists in the country. Board Certification information will make you aware of the doctor’s training, experience, and skills.
Know about the doctor’s experience
The more experience a doctor has, the better the chances of effective treatment. So, learning about the doctor’s experience is necessary. You can try to find out how many patients with a specific health condition the gastroenterologist has treated. Also, ensure that the doctor has graduated from an accredited fellowship training program.
Research hospital quality
Researching the hospital quality, where the gastroenterologist treats patients, is important in your search for the best gastroenterologists near me. Also, consider the location of the hospital. It has been found that when quality care is provided, there are more chances of speedy recovery and fewer complications.
Analyze the doctor’s communication style
The doctor’s communication style matters the most as it helps you feel more comfortable with them while discussing health concerns. In the first meeting with the gastroenterologist, ask them questions and see how they respond. Find and choose a doctor who considers your treatment preferences and respects your decision.
Go through patient reviews
Reading other patient-written reviews will make you aware of the experiences of others with a particular doctor. By going through the patients’ reviews, you can learn how the doctor treats their patients and how cordial and helpful the staff is at their premises.
Insurance coverage
Insurance coverage is practical, and you should choose a gastroenterologist who is part of your insurance plan. But you must consider the doctor’s credentials, experience, hospital, and other details.
Few practical considerations
As a part of your search for the best gastroenterologists near me, you also need to analyze specific practical considerations such as the doctor’s office hours, location, and how helpful the staff is.
Research more
To find detailed information about the gastroenterologist, researching more is suggested. Prepare a list of questions on your first visit to help determine your choice.
Best gastroenterologists nearby
Some options that might come up in your search for the best gastroenterologists near me are:
Dr. Sarah J. Schwarzenberg
Dr. Sara, MD, specializes in Pediatric Gastroenterology and has 43 years of experience in the healthcare field. She has participated in four clinical trials and has bagged awards and accolades.
Dr. Peter J. Bangsund
Dr. Bangsund has been practicing for the last fifteen years, and his leading areas of expertise are Bacterial Gastroenteritis, Gastrectomy, Colonoscopy, Esophagitis, and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. Enloe Medical Center, Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital, and Oroville Hospital are his affiliations.
Dr. David J. Desilets
Dr. Desilets has been practicing for the last 32 years and specializes in treating Childhood Pancreatitis, Colonoscopy, Endoscopy, Acute Pancreatitis, and Achalasia. His affiliations are Baystate Noble Hospital, Baystate Medical Center, and Baystate Franklin Medical Center.