When it comes to surgical procedures, choosing a highly skilled and professional general surgeon is crucial for your health and well-being. General surgeons perform an array of procedures, including cholecystectomy (gall bladder removal) and appendectomy (removal of the appendix). They also assist other specialty surgeons in complex procedures such as hysterectomy (removal of the uterus).
Whether you are searching for a general surgeon near you or specifically looking for a general surgeon in Glendale, New York, it’s essential to consider several factors. In this blog, we will discuss what to look for in a general surgeon to ensure you receive high-quality care and the latest medical procedures. In addition, we’ll discuss the top qualities that EMU Health’s general surgeons possess.
Qualifications and Credentials
The first step in finding a reliable general surgeon or any healthcare professional is to verify their qualifications and credentials. Look for a surgeon who is board-certified, which ensures that they have completed rigorous training and have met the standards set by the relevant medical board.
Additionally, consider their educational background and training practice, such as fellowship training in a specific focus, such as gastrointestinal surgery, oncological surgery, and head and neck surgery.
Experience and Specialization
Experience plays a vital role in a surgeon’s skill and ability to handle various surgical procedures. Finding out how long the surgeon has been practicing is a crucial bit of information.
Find out about their time in training since their graduation and whether they have experience in performing the specific procedure you need. As mentioned above, general surgeons often have specialized areas of focus, and assessing their experience will help you determine if they are the right fit for your specific needs.
Referrals and Recommendations
Whenever you require a service, reviews, and referrals matter a lot. Seeking referrals and recommendations from trusted sources can provide valuable insights into a general surgeon’s reputation.
Consult your primary care physician, friends, family, or colleagues who have undergone similar procedures. Online reviews and patient testimonials can also offer additional perspectives.
However, remember to consider multiple sources and make an informed decision based on a comprehensive overview of the surgeon’s reputation. Some of the positive attributes you might want to find in a general surgeon include highly skilled and professional treatment, empathetic communication, and provision of continued care.
Communication and Bedside Manner
Effective communication between you and your surgeon is one of the cornerstones for a successful surgical journey. During the initial consultation, assess how well the surgeon listens to your concerns, answers your questions, and explains the procedure in a clear and understandable manner.
Good communication helps avoid misdiagnoses, reduces excessive costs, and gives a sense of relief before the surgery. A general surgeon with excellent bedside manners will ensure that you feel comfortable, informed, and actively involved in the decision-making process.
Hospital Affiliations and Surgical Facilities
General surgeons work with various hospitals and surgical facilities. When choosing a general surgeon, look into the hospitals at which they provide their surgical treatments.
Some general factors to consider are the location and infrastructure of the hospital, such as equipment and availability of the latest technology. Moreover, affiliation with reputable medical institutions reflects the surgeon’s commitment to high standards of care and access to advanced medical resources.
Additionally, you can look at reviews online to assess the hospital or surgical facility where your surgeon will be operating.
Continuing Education and Medical Advances
Medicine is an ever-evolving field, with new techniques and medical advances emerging regularly. A competent general surgeon should actively pursue continuing education, attend conferences and workshops, and stay updated with the latest advancements in surgical procedures.
Ask about their involvement in research, participation in clinical trials, and commitment to adopting innovative techniques to ensure you receive the most advanced and effective treatments available.
Another way to assess their continuing medical advances is by looking at their research publications. Surgeons with high aptitude, skills, and a liking for continuing medical education often publish research articles regularly.
Surgical Outcomes and Complication Rates
While surgical outcomes can vary due to various factors, it’s essential to understand the general surgeon’s track record regarding complication rates and patient satisfaction. Inquire about their success rates, post-operative infection rates, and any complications specific to the procedure you are considering.
A good general surgeon will openly discuss these issues and provide realistic expectations. This can help build trust and confidence in their abilities.
Availability and Accessibility
When choosing any healthcare service provider, availability and accessibility are very important factors to consider. The general surgeon’s availability and accessibility are essential for ongoing consultations or follow-up appointments.
Ensure the surgeon’s office is conveniently located and easily accessible, thus reducing your travel time and logistical challenges. Additionally, check if the surgeon has multiple office locations or offers virtual consultations, which can be particularly useful for busy individuals.
General Surgery in Queens, NY, and Brooklyn, NY at EMU Health
If you or a loved one are looking for a highly skilled and experienced general surgeon in Brooklyn, NY, or Queens, NY, we have the right one for you at EMU Health. Our surgeons have all of the qualities mentioned above, as well as years of experience helping patients get back to their best health.
Dr. Patty Yu is one of the general surgeons at EMU Health, and she is double board-certified in general surgery as well as critical care medicine. With over 12 years of experience, you know you’ll be in capable hands with Dr. Yu.
In addition to general surgery, our team is composed of multi-specialty doctors, ensuring that you and your family get the most comprehensive care for your needs. For more information, our surgery center at (718) 849-8700 or fill out our appointment request form here. We look forward to being your partners in health!
