Orthopedic doctors are responsible for diagnosing and treating patients with problems with bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. They use a variety of techniques to correct these problems, including surgery, medication, and physical therapy. Because orthopedic doctors treat such a wide range of conditions, it is important to choose one who has experience treating your particular condition.
It is worth the time and effort to research and shop for an orthopedic doctor, so you end up with the right one. The quality of orthopedic care you receive rests heavily on your choice of an orthopedic doctor. Here is a guide on how to choose the right orthopedic doctor for your needs.
Choosing an Orthopedic Doctor: What to Consider
There are many factors to consider when choosing an orthopedic doctor. Some important considerations include:
- The orthopedic doctor’s experience and training. Make sure the doctor you choose has the experience and specialized training in treating the specific condition you’re dealing with. Whether it’s for a sports injury or a severely arthritic joint, choose an orthopedic doctor that is board-certified and fellowship trained in sports medicine, if you have a sports injury, or joint replacement, if you have advanced arthritis. Experience is a great predictor of success rates and how likely the treatment will be successful.
- The doctor’s bedside manner. It’s important to feel comfortable with your orthopedic doctor, so make sure you choose someone who makes you feel at ease. You will be making important healthcare decisions with your orthopedic doctor, and choosing one with whom you are comfortable and who listens to you will help you feel more confident in their ability to provide the best possible care for you.
- Your insurance coverage. Be sure to check with your insurance company to see if the orthopedic doctor you’re considering is covered under your plan. This factor can drastically impact your healthcare costs.
- The surgery center. There are advantages to an orthopedic surgeon performing surgeries outside the hospital and in an outpatient surgery center. There is better control over the quality of care with smaller and more personalized teams, a lower risk of infection and other complications, and greater ease in scheduling procedures. Patients usually pay less for their care when they use a surgery center affiliated with their orthopedic surgeon’s office.
Best Orthopedic Doctor in Baltimore and the Surrounding Area
If you are searching for the highest quality orthopedic center in Baltimore and the surrounding area, choose Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland. Our orthopedic doctors are board-certified and fellowship trained in the treatment of the full range of problems of the hip and knee, hand and wrist, shoulder and elbow, and foot and ankle, and provide comprehensive and personalized care. We are proud to offer top-notch physical therapy services in our physical therapy facilities in Clarksville, Jessup, and Westminster.
We empower our patients to make important decisions about their health. To schedule a consultation with one of our orthopedic doctors, use our convenient online appointment request form or call our office today at (410) 644-1880, toll-free at (855) 4MD-BONE.