Finding a qualified surgeon to perform your hip replacement is not a decision you should take lightly. This is a highly invasive procedure with surgical risks, so it’s important you find someone who can provide you with the highest quality of care possible. If you’re currently looking for a surgeon for your own hip replacement, here are a few things to keep in mind when picking a candidate.
Look for an experienced practitioner.
It’s important that your hip replacement surgeon has plenty of experience in the medical field, but it’s also a good idea to choose someone who has lots of experience with hip replacements specifically. In order to find the most highly qualified candidate, many people choose to work with a center that deals exclusively with orthopedic procedures. When screening potential surgeons, be sure to look for information about their education, area of specialty, and any fellowships they are currently a part of.
Consider the costs.
Obviously you don’t want to pay more than you have to for hip replacement surgery, but you should never make money the sole deciding factor. Many surgeons offer this procedure at a price below the average because they are new doctors or don’t have much experience with this kind of surgery. Ideally, you should choose someone who strikes a good balance between knowledgeability and affordability.
Ask for a reference from your doctor.
If you’re completely unsure of whom you should choose as a hip replacement surgeon, it may be beneficial to ask your doctor for a recommendation. Often physicians will be familiar with local surgeons and should be able to point you in the direction of someone who is respected and knowledgeable about the procedure.
Ask questions.
Most doctors won’t respond negatively to questions about their qualifications, and in fact, many will appreciate that you’re taking the time to do your research. It’s always good to plan your questions ahead of time and write them down so that you don’t forget to ask about any important pieces of information.
Trust your intuition.
Even if you find a surgeon who meets all of your requirements, don’t feel compelled to choose them. If anything about the situation makes you uncomfortable or if you’re not completely confident in your decision, don’t hesitate to keep looking or seek a second opinion.
