How Do I Pick A Specialist?
A specialist, as you might imagine, is just a doctor who specializes in a certain type of patient care. There are specialists for every field, and they’re usually grouped by a localized body system. For example, there are cardiac specialists, urology specialists, general surgery specialists, and more.
Here at Suncoast Surgical Associates, our doctors specialize in abdominal, gastrointestinal, colorectal, anorectal, and thoracic (GERD) conditions. In this blog, we’re going to cover some common questions about choosing a specialist: how do patients choose a specialist, how do I find the best specialist, and when should you be referred to a specialist?
When Should You Be Referred to a Specialist?
Generally speaking, your general care practitioner (GCP) will refer you to a specialist if you are dealing with an ailment he or she isn’t entirely trained to treat. General care practitioners have a wide range of basic knowledge in general patient care. This means that if something very specific is happening with your body – especially something that will require tests – a specialist will need to be involved.
Most GCPs will be honest with you and let you know if you have exceeded their expertise. At this point, they will either refer you to a specialist within their network of doctors or ask you who you would prefer to see.
How Do Patients Choose a Specialist?
So, do you have control over which specialist you see?
Absolutely.
Even if your GCP recommends a different doctor than you hope to see, you still have control. This is your body and your care we’re talking about. It can be easiest to mention who you’d like to be set up with at your GCP appointment – this saves everyone time. Or, if you don’t know which doctor you’d like to see yet, you can always sit on it and call your GCP’s office back later.
Regardless, the choice is ultimately yours, even if you want to see a specialist outside your insurance network.
How Do I Find the Best Specialist?
The best specialist for you might be different than someone else. Different doctors have different personalities, just like everyone else – some are direct, some are talkative, and some are just really chipper! Choosing a specialist isn’t just about that doctor’s experience; it’s also about your experience while you’re in their office.
Here are some tips to help you find the right specialist for you:
- Search your local area for keywords like “best X specialist near me”
- Talk to friends and family members about who they’ve worked with – who they liked and didn’t like
- Get into a consultation with a doctor once you have a few options in mind
- Check with your insurance company to see who is “in-network” (and to see if they require a referral for insurance billing purposes)
Here at Suncoast Surgical Associates, our team of professional surgeons is both knowledgeable and personable. Patients who work with our doctors rave about their surgical skills. If you’re looking for a specialist for something like GERD, rectal issues, abdominal issues, and more, get in touch with our team of specialists today.