When it comes to finding the best orthopedic doctor near you, there are certain criteria that should be taken into consideration. After all, you deserve the best physician for your care.
It is not always easy to realize what factors are important to you, which is why we have compiled some of the most important considerations when choosing the best orthopedic doctor near you.
Here are some of the key criteria for choosing an orthopedic doctor.
Good Searchability on Google
Just as easily as you can search for restaurants or pharmacies near you, you can search for orthopedic doctors near you. Simply type in “orthopedic doctors near me” or “best orthopedic doctor in Baltimore” in an internet search engine (like Google), and you should see which doctors are conveniently located near you.
Board-Certified and Fellowship Trained
These are two criteria that you should start with, because they tell you that the physician can provide high-quality orthopedic care.
Board certification is a process that ensures that a physician has met rigorous standards set by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS). This certification is only granted after completing extensive medical education, passing comprehensive written and oral exams, and demonstrating knowledge in all areas related to orthopedics.
Fellowship training provides additional specialized expertise in specific areas such as sports medicine, spine surgery, joint replacement surgery, or pediatric orthopedics.
Excellent Reputation and Reviews
Orthopedic practices with an excellent reputation typically have been operating for decades, providing orthopedic services to the surrounding community. It’s possible that some members of your social circle may have been to them and can share their experience with you.
In addition, check each orthopedic doctor’s online reviews from past patients before making your decision on which one is right for you. Reviews from patients can reveal a lot about the way the doctor practices medicine, their mannerisms and communication skills, as well as their practice’s atmosphere and staff’s approachability and willingness to help patients.
For example, here is a patient review of Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland:
“I have visited this practice for two separate issues and cannot imagine receiving better care from anyone, anywhere. The first visit was for a torn triceps tendon, which required surgery. The procedure and follow-up care (including physical therapy) were perfect, and I have full range of motion with no residual issues. This happened when I was 45. Recently I went back because of a minor shoulder injury. I thought it might be a rotator cuff issue. After a same day walk-in visit on a Saturday, the diagnosis was bicep tendonitis. After a couple weeks of therapy, I was fine. When I went in for the follow-up visit, the doc had clearly reviewed my entire history; he even knew how I hurt my tricep when I was 45. Everyone from the desk staff to the PAs to the doctors were first-rate and I highly recommend them.”
Reviews such as the one above show that a practice has a great reputation in the community and that they treat their patients with great care.
Convenient Locations and Easy Availability
Make sure that the locations where your chosen orthopedic provider practices are convenient enough for regular visits, and that it is easy to schedule an appointment with the physician. Anyone with orthopedic issues needs to be seen as soon as possible before their condition worsens. Therefore, check for their practice locations and place a call to the clinic of your choice to learn about theirtypical appointment availability.
Best Orthopedic Doctor in Baltimore, MD
The board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons at Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland (OACM) have built and maintained a great reputation in Baltimore and the surrounding areas. All our doctors have advanced training in various specialties, and we will match you with the best one who can serve your specific needs.
We are proud to have the recognition of locals in the community as a top orthopedic practice in Central Maryland and have many patient testimonials to share. We have several locations and make it easy for patients to see a doctor. To schedule an appointment with an orthopedic doctor, use our online request form or call our office today at (410) 644-1880.