How To Choose The Right Surgeon For You
Whether you require emergency surgery or just want to invest in your appearance for decades to come, choosing the right surgeon is one of the most important decisions you will make in your lifetime. But with so many factors to consider, it can be impossible to know where to begin. Continue reading to find out how to choose the right surgeon for you.
Ask your friends and family
The best way to choose the right surgeon for you is to ask your friends and family for personal recommendations. If you are comfortable sharing minor details of your upcoming surgery, you may be able to find the right surgeon for you through word-of-mouth marketing. On the other hand, if you know someone that has undergone a similar procedure and is pleased with the results, try asking if they mind sharing their contact details with you. Even if you don’t end up proceeding with a particular surgeon, you may still be able to ask them any burning questions you have ahead of your surgery during a free consultation.
Read online reviews and testimonials
Online reviews and testimonials can be a great way to familiarise yourself with the success of a surgeon. This not only helps future patients decide which physician to proceed with but also allows surgeons to build a positive reputation within the industry. In today’s digital landscape, online reviews and testimonials are the backbone of modern healthcare. A written testimonial with additional images can be a determining factor for patients in the process of deciding which surgeon to choose. As surgery is such a permanent step, visual storytelling is key to turning interested consumers into paying customers.
Familiarise yourself with their credentials
Before you choose a surgeon, you must familiarise yourself with their credentials beforehand. There are several things you should check for ahead of time. This includes a license to practice surgery in your state, certification from a relevant national surgical board, medical indemnity from a leading medical insurance provider such as Incision Indemnity, and proof of completing and passing a residency training program and examination. To find out whether your surgeon has been in the news for the right or wrong reasons, try typing their name into a leading search engine. This is a great way to find out whether they are respected in the local area. If you stumble across a news article or social media post from a former patient accusing them of medical malpractice, tick them off your list of potential surgeons.
Arrange a consultation
If you have found out everything you need to know about a prospective surgeon and are happy to proceed, arrange a consultation. By meeting in person, you can ask any niggling questions and alleviate any worries. If you require emergency or immediate surgery, you can narrow down your list of potential surgeons according to how long their waiting list is. Don’t agree to proceed with the first surgeon you meet with. There is no golden rule, but you should meet with a minimum of three physicians before you make up your mind. Prepare a list of questions ahead of time and make a note of their answers so you can weigh up the pros and cons of each and make an informed decision.
Choosing the right surgeon for you can be an exhausting process. There are a number of steps you must take before you make a final decision. For example, you should ask your friends and family for personal recommendations, read online reviews and testimonials, familiarise yourself with their credentials, and arrange a consultation ahead of time.
