Hand Surgeon: Choose The Right One

Finding a hand surgeon is much like searching for any medical specialist. You'll have to ask around, spread the word that you're on the prowl for a good surgeon, and possibly meet with a few duds along the way. While the process can be frustrating, there are many different things you can do to help you find the best one for your particular needs. Here's how to get started on your search.

Internet

Although it isn't always the most reliable source for information, the internet allows you to access various websites with ease. You can compare rates, experience, and other important factors side by side in the comfort of your own home. The internet is the best place to start your search for information about potential doctors. You may find some reviews by former patients as well, which while useful to a degree, are not always honest. Be wary of excessive praise or damnation in client reviews. Sometimes one spurned patient can seek revenge through excessive negativity on the internet. While some unscrupulous ones may use fake, glowing reviews to plaster internet search engines with false praise.

Recommendations

By far one of the most reliable and best ways is through former client recommendation. This may come from a close friend or family member, or can come through a party that is far removed (for example, your cousin's co-worker's former sister-in-law). Even if you are not familiar with the person giving the recommendation, you may be able to meet up with them for coffee to discuss their experiences with the hand surgeon and the procedure. Getting a first-hand account can give you plenty of insight and tips on what to expect and what to look for in a quality surgeon.

Your general doctor is also a great place to start in order to get a recommendation. They can refer you to one or a few potential hand surgeons within the area that they have personal experience dealing with. They can also give you tips on some to avoid or that may have a bad reputation.

Consultations

Once you've done some research and picked out a few hand surgeons, you'll probably want to visit and consult with two or three before settling on one that makes you feel comfortable and confident. They'll go over the procedure in detail with you, their experience, and what you can expect of the recovery and results. In turn, you should ask them plenty of detailed questions about the procedure and their work as well.

Remember that often the best and most sought after ones have long waiting lists, even for just consultations. If you have an emergency and need to undergo a procedure quickly, you may have fewer options to choose from. If a particular doctor does have a long waiting list, be sure to explain to the person in charge of booking to call you if there are any cancellations, which can help speed up the process and is quite a common occurrence.