Any person who has a problem with their feet should consider seeing a podiatrist in Racine WI. Doctors in this field specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of the feet and ankles and can be of help to those suffering from various diseases, injuries, and deformities. However, as these doctors are specialists, a person may have never chosen one before. Following are some things to keep in mind as you choose which doctor to see to address the problem you are experiencing.
Make Use of Available Resources
Begin the process of selecting a podiatrist by speaking to your primary physician. They can be of great help in finding the right individual for your needs. In addition, visit the websites of the American Podiatric Medical Association and The American Board of Podiatric Medicine to make use of tools for finding a podiatrist. Be sure to check with your insurance company, as they may require policyholders remain within their network to receive the highest level of benefits. Choosing a doctor outside of this network could lead to higher out-of-pocket costs.
Meet With Several Podiatrists
Make appointments with several podiatrists to see if the doctor is a good fit. First, determine which practices are accepting new patients. Next, learn where the practice is located and if multiple offices are maintained. Ask about office hours, as appointments need to be convenient for the patient, and be sure to ask about how long it takes to get an appointment, especially in the case of an emergency.
Learn what services are available in the office. Do they have a lab and x-rays on-site or will the patient need to go elsewhere for these services? Which hospitals and surgical centers does the doctor work with? Both are important questions that should never be overlooked. Finally, ask about board certifications.
Get more information about selecting a Podiatrist in Racine WI to ensure the right person is selected. The choice of doctor is very personal, and a person shouldn’t select their physician simply because someone else had a good experience with them. It’s best to meet with several doctors to find the one you are most comfortable with and also the one who appears to be the most informed concerning the problem you are experiencing. This helps to ensure the highest level of care.