It can be difficult when you hear that you need surgery, but there are certain things you must do in order to make the whole process more bearable. The main thing to consider is the foot surgeon in Joliet because they will be doing the work. You want someone who is board-certified, who has an experience, and possibly one that’s considered an expert in their field.
Board-Certification
While states don’t require their surgeons to be board certified, most surgeons prefer to do the extra work to become board-certified, as it shows they care about their patients and their job. The status of board certification means that the Joliet foot surgeon has demonstrated his or her knowledge in the area to his or her peers. The American Board of Podiatry Surgery is a surgical board-certification for Podiatric surgeons. Typically, orthopedists can be certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery though this certification is for those specializing in surgery of the feet.
Experience
Experience is also an important factor when finding surgeons qualified to handle your surgery. You want someone who has been around for a long time and has been doing these surgeries for many years. While age isn’t a determining factor of experience, typically, surgeons with a little gray hair may make you feel better about them, though younger surgeons typically use advanced techniques, use the latest technology and have more experience.
National/Local Expert
Finding a surgeon that lectures nationally or locally to other doctors may mean that the one you selected is very experienced. This means that other doctors want to listen to your first choice. Just remember that national recognition isn’t a necessity to find a qualified doctor.
Published Articles
Surgeons that publish articles in scientific journals may also be a great way to determine if your doctor is the right one. The process is time-consuming and is reviewed by others. It can be simple to research these articles and surgeons by visiting the National Institutes of Health and National Library of Medicine database.
Other Patients
After doing your research, you may want to contact the doctor and ask for references from past patients to determine if he or she will be the right choice for you.
Find Out More
You can also call local hospitals to ask for recommendations, ask friends or family members about their surgeons or ask your family doctor for referrals or recommendations.
Your Joliet foot surgeon is the key to surgery success, so it’s important to find a good one. Suburban Foot & Ankle Associates may be able to help, so visit their website today.
