Primary care physicians often suggest seeing a gastroenterologist when someone develops a severe digestive health condition. Gastroenterologists are specialists who treat and diagnose disorders related to the gallbladder, stomach, esophagus, colon, bile ducts, pancreas, and small intestine. Some of them even specialize in motility disorders that impact how waste, liquid, and food travel through the digestive system. Below are a few valuable tips to help one find the best gastroenterologist nearby.

Seek a referral
When someone with a severe digestive disorder visits a primary care physician, they recommend seeing a gastroenterologist for quality care. People who do not know any gastroenterologists can ask for a list of referrals. Though patients can go with the doctor’s recommendations, it sometimes helps to ask friends, family members, and other reliable sources if they have any suggestions for a specialist.

Search online
If someone fails to find a good gastroenterologist through their primary care physician or close circle, they can turn to the internet for leads. Any popular search engine can help locate specialists nearby. However, the internet may provide a lengthy list of suggestions, so patients must narrow their search.

Consider experience and specializations
Patients should research the doctors’ experience before deciding. Those who have been practicing for many years are more likely to provide better care than someone just entering the field. Besides experience, one should inquire about their specializations. While some gastroenterologists may specialize in treating issues related to the stomach, others may specialize in treating intestine or liver disorders. Patients may also find pediatric gastroenterologists who specialize in child care. Individuals must choose an expert after considering the kind of disorder they have.

Research their credentials
A board certification is the most basic certification a gastroenterologist or any doctor should have. It implies the practitioner has the necessary skills, training, and experience to offer adequate GI care. Besides ensuring the specialist has a board certification, one must ensure they have no history of disciplinary actions or malpractice claims. Patients can research the doctor’s history on the relevant state websites.

Assess the hospital’s quality
Many gastroenterologists practice in hospitals. Patients must visit such hospitals and carefully evaluate their healthcare quality. The hospital should be accessible and be able to treat gastro disorders. Individuals should also read online reviews to determine the facility’s reputation. Further, one should check whether they accept walk-ins, where patients can visit without an appointment and be attended to in order of arrival.

Understand the scope of services
When narrowing the list of potential specialists, individuals must consider what services they offer. Does the gastroenterologist treat bladder-related issues? Do they have a well-equipped clinic with the necessary diagnostic equipment? Gastroenterologists usually request multiple diagnostic tests to ascertain the underlying cause. Therefore, patients must select a clinic equipped with essential diagnostic tools. This way, one will not need to search for another facility to undergo the recommended tests.

Evaluate the clinic’s accessibility
When gauging accessibility, one must evaluate two things: location and availability. Location is crucial, especially for people with chronic conditions who must visit the clinic regularly for tests and follow-ups. Such individuals must pick a nearby clinic. If the facility is nearby, one can also be assured of receiving emergency care. Availability implies the doctor is open to receiving patients and is not overbooked.

Consider the communication style
Patients must pick a gastroenterologist who makes them feel heard and with whom they are comfortable. One must be able to communicate with them easily. The expert should also be open to providing the necessary information. The best way to gauge a doctor’s communication style is to ask them a few questions and listen to their replies. Was the specialist welcoming in answering the questions? Did they fully comprehend the question? Was the consultation rushed? If the answers to these questions are negative, it is a red flag. Good gastroenterologists listen to their patients’ concerns, try to understand them, learn about their treatment preferences, and respect their decision-making process.

Estimate the charges
Some gastro treatments can be expensive, so patients must request an estimate before choosing a doctor. The total cost can vary depending on the specialist’s fees, the condition being treated, and whether or not one requires surgery or additional tests.

Check health insurance
Individuals must choose a gastroenterologist who falls under their insurance plan’s network. To find in-network specialists, one can contact the insurance provider or ask the doctor whether they accept the given insurance. Choosing a gastroenterologist within the policy leads to lesser out-of-pocket expenses in the long run.