When it comes to major surgery, the choice of surgeon is one of the most important decisions you can make. After all, who you choose to trust with your body can have a lasting impact on your overall quality of life.
Ideally, you’ll want to choose a surgeon who is highly qualified and experienced in performing specialised procedures such as knee and hip replacements. By doing your research, asking the right questions and understanding what you’re looking for in a surgeon or consultant, you can make an informed decision that is right for your specific medical needs.
The following 10 step guide will help provide you with ideas that will help inform your decision so you can rest easy knowing your health is in good hands.
Step 1: Check their qualifications
One of the most important factors to consider when finding a surgeon or consultant is their qualifications. You want to ensure they have the necessary education, training, and certification to perform the type of surgery required. Look for a surgeon who is board-certified in their specialty and has completed an accredited residency programme. You can also check if they have any additional certifications or fellowship training. Practice Plus Group’s dedicated consultants page provides detailed information about all of our doctors.
Step 2: Research their experience
Experience is another critical factor to consider when choosing a surgeon. Look for a surgeon who has a good track record of performing the procedure you need. Their success, complication and patient satisfaction rates should be available on request. You should also consider the consultant’s experience level. This includes how long they have been performing surgeries and how many surgeries they perform each year.
Step 3: Ask for referrals
One of the best ways to find a reputable surgeon or consultant is to ask for referrals from your GP or primary care physician. Friends or family members who have undergone similar procedures may also provide valuable insights into a surgeon’s expertise. If you have private health insurance, your provider may also be able to offer advice and recommendations.
Step 4: Read online reviews
In today’s digital age, information about consultants and surgeons is just a few clicks away. Check online reviews and ratings as well as testimonials from previous patients to hear about their experiences.
Step 5: Consider the hospital or clinic
The hospital or clinic where the surgery will be performed is also an essential consideration. Look for a facility that is accredited and has a good reputation for safety, high quality, and good patient outcomes. You should also take into account the location of the hospital or clinic along with the availability of support services.
Step 6: Check safety records
All hospitals are inspected by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) or equivalent health regulators in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. You can find these reports and hospital ratings online.
Step 7: Search clinical outcomes publications
All NHS and private surgeons and consultants will be members of associations such as the Royal College of Surgeons and registered with the General Medical Council (GMC). You can search by hospital or consultant to find data from Clinical Outcomes Publications for specific procedures, such as knee replacement surgery on MyNHS.
Step 8: Check insurance coverage
For insured patients – whether you have your own private healthcare insurance or are covered through your employer – check your insurance coverage to ensure that the surgeon and facility are available to you. Your insurance provider should be able to confirm whether your policy covers you while highlighting any out-of-pocket costs associated with the surgery. They should also be able to pre-authorise your treatment.
Step 9: Schedule a consultation
Once you have identified a potential surgeon, schedule a consultation. This is also an opportunity to assess their bedside manner, communication style, and overall demeanour. Choose a surgeon who you feel comfortable talking to and who takes the time to answer all of your questions.
Step 10: Follow post-operative care instructions
After the surgery, it is crucial to follow the post-operative care instructions provided by your surgeon. These instructions may include medication management, wound care, physical therapy, and follow-up appointments.
Find first-class care and consultants
At Practice Plus Group Hospitals, we provide top-notch care from first-class consultants and surgeons to ensure you receive first-class care. With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to patient-centred care, we’re dedicated to ensuring comfort, safety, and satisfaction throughout your surgical journey.
Contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our certified surgeons and consultants.
