If one has been recommended to undergo spine surgery, it is essential that they pick the right orthopedic spine specialist/doctor near them. It is important to spend some time researching so that one finds a qualified doctor who can help them get appropriate treatment and guide them through the recovery process. One may have to consider several aspects for shortlisting doctors, so here are a few tips for finding a top-rated spine specialist:

Address all queries during the first visit
The right approach for choosing the best spine doctor nearby is to address all concerns during the initial consultation, even if they seem to be trivial. For many, the first consultation with a spine specialist can be intimidating. This is understandable, as spinal issues can be quite complex. A good way to deal with this fear is to jot down all the queries and address them during the first consultation with the doctor. This also helps one understand whether the specialist is forthcoming and transparent while sharing information.

Look up their credentials
When one is looking for a top-rated spine specialist nearby, they should look board certified. The doctor should ideally be a member of a large well-known organization such as the American Board of Spine Surgeons or the North American Spine Society. One can easily verify this information by contacting these organizations. In addition, one can check their state’s medical licensing board to verify the doctor’s certification. One can also look up a doctor’s education, certification, and other professional details through the Federation of State Medical Boards’ official website.

Check for specialization
There are two types of doctors who focus on the spine: orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons. But both areas of practice are quite different. So, the kind of doctor one needs depends on the specific condition one has and the treatment that they require. So, one should specifically see if an orthopedic spine specialist nearby specializes in the disorder one has. Also, it is not necessary that all orthopedic surgeons will have some experience in spine-related treatment. So one should ask about the doctor’s fellowship and years of specialized practice to ascertain if they have the required expertise.

Ask for patient references
Prior to choosing a spine specialist, one can ask the doctor if they can provide patient references. However, HIPAA laws prevent doctors from sharing patient information without their consent. So the doctor may not offer a list of former patients. But they might agree to provide details once they have the consent of former patients. Then, one can contact former patients and ask them about their experience with the particular doctor. Alternatively, one can look up patient reviews of a hospital, doctor, or treatment center (if available online).

Prioritize comfort and trust
Finding orthopedic spine specialists/doctors nearby that one can trust is as crucial as their credentials and experience. They should be able to build a good rapport with patients through clear and transparent communication. One can gauge how reliable a doctor is by their willingness to answer all the questions so as to provide their patient with relevant information. Moreover, one should ensure that the doctor is approachable, open-minded, and a good listener. Also, it is important to see if the doctor welcomes a second opinion if their patient wants one.