Choosing the right orthopedist is an important decision, and by asking the right questions, you can make an informed choice that will help you get the treatment you need and get back to enjoying the activities you love.
Below are some helpful questions to help you make a better decision about your health.
1. How much success have you had in treating patients with my condition?
It’s important to find an orthopedic doctor who has experience treating your specific condition. So, if you have a problem with your spine, it is best to choose an orthopedist that specializes in spine surgery – not that these doctors only perform surgery, but that their advanced training means they can offer you more treatment options, including non-surgical techniques to help bring you relief from symptoms. Also, should you need orthopedic surgery, you know the orthopedic doctor you’ve chosen is also qualified to perform spine surgery.
Ask about how many times they have done various treatments and their success rates. Experience is usually a good predictor of an orthopedic surgeon’s success rate.
2. What treatment options do you typically recommend?
Ask the orthopedist what treatment options are available for your condition. This could include non-surgical options such as physical therapy, medications, or injections, as well as surgical options, if necessary. A good orthopedist will take the time to explain each option and help you understand the risks and benefits of each. They will also help you decide which option is best for your specific needs. It is rare for an orthopedic surgeon to recommend surgery without having the patient first try nonsurgical treatments. If you are uneasy about the doctor’s approach or feel as if your preferences are not being considered, it may not be the right orthopedist for you.
3. Can you tell me about your education and credentials?
When it comes to choosing a doctor, you want the best of the best. Therefore, choose one who comes with a rich educational pedigree and credentials that show their competency and professionalism. Look for board-certification and fellowship training when evaluating an orthopedist. These credentials show the physician meets high standards of education and experience set by experts in the industry and will help you choose a qualified, experienced, and reputable doctor for yourself.
4. Which insurance plans do you accept?
Medical care is experience, especially specialist care like orthopedics. In order to plan for future costs of treatment and avoid surprises down the road, make sure you understand exactly what your insurance covers and what you will be expected to pay out of pocket. For instance, even if an orthopedist accepts your insurance, your policy may just cover some nonsurgical treatments and not other advanced treatments. It is best to know these things up front before selecting a doctor for yourself.
Top Orthopedist in Dover, NJ
The board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons at Orthopedic Associates of West Jersey (OAWJ) offer superior orthopedic services for patients with spine issues, sports injuries, work-related injuries, arthritis, and much more. We provide individualized care to each patient and are driven to provide them with the best outcomes.
To schedule an appointment with an orthopedist at Orthopedic Associates of West Jersey (OAWJ), call our office today at (973) 989-0888 or use our convenient online request form.
