Howard Marans MD: 4 Questions to Ask When Choosing Between Knee Specialists

Dr. Howard Marans MD - Each year, millions of people of all ages seek medical treatment for common knee problems. The knee joint provides a wide range of motion which leaves the area vulnerable to a variety of injuries. Common knee injuries range from simple sprains to complex tears in the ligaments.

Knee Specialist

In most situations, the knee injury may be corrected with simple non-surgical treatments, including rest, pain medications, and therapeutic procedures such as physical therapy. Other complex injuries require the medical attention and expertise of knee specialists. When choosing between knee specialists, consider these four questions.

1. What are best reviews and recommendations among the knee specialists?

Seeking out treatment for a knee injury may seem like an overwhelming task. Start by getting recommendations and referrals from a variety of sources.

·         Ask the primary care physician for a recommendation based on current medical needs.

·         Ask family members and friends who have visited an orthopedic specialist.

·         Consult the health care provider representative. If the knee specialists are not in the medical care network, the out of pocket costs may be higher.

·         Use the Internet as a resource tool by checking online reviews and customers satisfaction rankings.

·         Consult the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.

2. What are their educational and certified credentials?

Do not be afraid to ask questions concerning their professional career. In most cases, the information is located on their office website or the hospital where the knee specialists are affiliated.

·         Where did they go to school?

·         What specialized training did they receive?

·         Are they board certified?

·         Have they received further training, discovering new techniques?

Most reputable knee specialists undergo extensive training in order to pass board certification for orthopedics. As a potential patient, finding out the type of training and schooling of the orthopedic doctors will add in narrowing down the search.

3. How long has the knee specialist been in practice?

An orthopedic knee specialist with consistent practice shows stability in the chosen medical field. When an orthopedic surgeon performs similar surgery on a consistent basis, there are fewer chances for errors and complications.

·         How long has the doctor been at the same location?

·         How many similar procedures are performed?

·         What is the doctor’s hospital afflation?

·         What is the success rate for the procedure?

4. Does the doctor give individualized attention?

When visiting a new doctor, anxieties and nervousness are two common reactions. Orthopedic knee specialists who make each patient feel at ease and comfortable is a vital component for quality care.

·         Does the doctor listen carefully while explaining the medical condition?

·         Does the doctor answer all questions and concerns?

·         Does the doctor explain all the different options for receiving medical treatment?

·         Does the doctor give a full explanation of the desired outcome for the procedure?

Feeling comfortable with treatment and the orthopedic knee expert is a must for an optimal outcome. When a person does not feel the doctor leaves up to the desired expectations, getting a second opinion is the next crucial step.

Choosing Between Knee Specialists

Common knee pain may be more than a simple sprain or ache from athletic training. Consulting knee specialists are the best way to return to an active, healthy lifestyle. Dr. Howard Marans will work with each patient to achieve this goal. Please click below to schedule your consultation or call us at 714.979.8981.