In the US, about 800,000 inguinal hernia repairs are performed annually. Severe cases of hernias may require immediate surgery, which may result in long-term effects on your overall health.
If you suspect you might have one, you must arrange to see a hernia surgeon immediately. They will evaluate the issue and assess the optimal treatment method.
Our guide will provide you with expert information on choosing the right surgeon. Read on to find out everything you need to know to choose a hernia surgeon and ensure a smooth surgery.
Check Board Certification
Certification from the American Board of Surgery (ABS) or the American Osteopathic Board of Surgery (AOBS) signifies that a doctor has undergone extensive training. It also means they have passed rigorous examinations. Additionally, it also shows they continued to improve their skills by engaging in continuing education.
Hernia surgeons must have completed a general surgery residency program. They should also be trained in the surgical management of hernias.
They must also pass both a qualifying and a written examination and take a re-certification exam every ten years. It demonstrates a surgeon’s commitment to delivering the highest quality care to patients.
Check Active Medical License
Confirm this information with the relevant state/provincial medical board. You should also check for any disciplinary action against the surgeon’s license.
It is also essential to look for a surgeon with a good safety record and experience in complex repairs. Find out how many hernia surgeries they have performed and check their success rate.
Furthermore, select a surgeon with whom you are comfortable discussing treatment options. The best surgeon will also promote sound medical advice. You can consult your surgeon or look for trusted sources online if you’re looking for a guide to prevent hernia.
Consider Insurance Coverage
Inquire about which health insurance policies the surgeon accepts in looking for options for surgeons. Read the plan to understand out-of-pocket costs. Some insurance plans require members to pay a percentage of the cost of care.
Additionally, it may also be helpful to review the surgeon’s references. You can talk to past patients to learn more about their experiences.
Review Hospital Ratings
Hospital rating sources like Healthgrades, U.S. News and World Report, and Yelp can be great places to start when choosing a hernia surgeon. These sources allow you to evaluate the past performance of surgeons and hospitals regarding care quality, patient satisfaction, and overall performance.
Additionally, hospitals with higher grades will have surgeons with more experience and training in the field. It is also beneficial to review patient reviews and ask surgeons about their skill sets to evaluate if they are the right match for a given procedure. Reading online reviews can also help you get more info.
Choose a Hernia Surgeon You Can Trust
Choosing the right hernia surgeon is paramount to a successful surgery. You need to consider your personal preferences, research your surgeon’s experience and education and make sure you receive a second opinion before making a decision. It is also essential to make sure your surgeon has any certification necessary.
Always seek out the best care for your hernia surgery. Therefore, research and choose a hernia surgeon that is right for your unique needs. Contact us today to find your ideal hernia surgeon.
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