Choosing the right hand surgeon doesn’t mean a surgeon who only operates on right hands! Kidding aside, finding the best doctor to treat and operate on your hands is no joking matter. It is crucial that the surgeon specializes in orthopedics and is a board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic physician.
Consider the following important factors before choosing a hand surgeon here in the Bismarck area:
Hand Surgeon’s Qualifications
As you search for the best hand surgeon in your area, look for a physician who is adept at performing orthopedic procedures and is knowledgeable of orthopedic conditions relating to the hand and joints. Different doctors specialize in different types of surgery and areas of the body, so look for someone who is a hand specialist and can perform surgery.
It is also a good idea to visit the doctor’s website to determine the type of surgeries the physician performs. Consider how long the surgeon has been practicing medicine and their educational background. Choose a surgeon who has performed more than a few hand surgeries.
Initial Consultation and Bedside Manner
Don’t be afraid to ask the doctor specific questions about their experience in hand surgery. The physician should proudly answer you with an explanation of accomplishments and successes; if the doctor balks at your questions, look for another doctor.
An attentive and competent surgeon wants the patient to be comfortable. It is not a good sign if the surgeon makes you feel uncomfortable for asking questions. It is also not a good sign if you walk away from the orthopedic consultation feeling ignored and that your concerns were dismissed, or that you felt rushed to make a decision.
Location Near You
The old adage about real estate (“location, location, location”) is also applicable to the process of choosing a hand surgeon. Your decision won’t be determined solely on the doctor’s proximity to where you live, but location is an important consideration.
Begin your search close to home. Living near the doctor’s office and close to the surgical center where your operation would be performed is a huge advantage. This way, if complications arise before or after your surgical procedure, your doctor is easily accessible.
Additionally, living in close proximity to the orthopedist will assist you with keeping your follow-up appointments. Follow-up is crucial to a complete recovery, because the doctor will make recommendations based on how your hand is healing. If you are in Bismarck, the good news is that there are outstanding hand specialists right here near you. In addition, The Bone & Joint Center has many satellite clinic locations all over North Dakota. So even though we may not have a permanent location in your city, we may visit on a monthly basis, which is perfect for follow-up appointments.
Hand Surgeons in North Dakota
If you are experiencing pain in your hands, whether due to arthritis or a hand injury, The Bone & Joint Center’s board-certified orthopedic doctors can help. We have a large group of surgeons, practitioners, and therapists who are here to serve you, and we offer a number of locations in the Bismarck area and across the entire state of North Dakota. We also serve many patients who are from South Dakota, Montana, and Wyoming.
Call us today at (800) 424-2663 to schedule a consultation, or visit our appointment request page now. We look forward to seeing you and getting your hand back to feeling and working normally again!
