How to Locate Board Certified Surgeons
If you need to undergo a surgical procedure or treatment, it is important that you find a competent surgeon. You need a surgeon who is board certified to administer the type of procedure you need. There are several resources that you can use to find the right surgeon to perform the procedure on you.
- Ask your primary care physician for a recommendation. Once you have determined that you need to see a surgeon, your primary care doctor can help you find the right surgeon for you. Ask him to suggest a board certified surgeon he would recommend to his own family or friends. Your doctor may also be able to provide you with background information about the surgeon, such as where he obtained his training and how much experience he has had as a surgeon.
- Obtain information from your health insurance provider. Most health insurance companies maintain directories of physicians on their databases. Contact your health insurance provider or go to their website to search for an in-network board certified surgeon. Their contact information is listed on your insurance card.
- Find a board certified surgeon through professional organizations. Professional organizations provide resources that can help you find physicians who have active membership in their organization. Their database contains extensive information about the physicians including their education, license status, board-certification status, awards and any malpractice records. Active members of such organizations must adhere to professional and ethical standards, so a surgeon you find through a professional organization must be reputable. Look for professional organizations related to the type of surgical specialty you are interested in, and search their website to find board certified surgeons.
- Search popular health information websites. You can also use well-known websites to find board certified surgeons. Visit sites such as Wellness.com and UCompareHealthCare.com to locate the right board certified surgeon for your situation.