Our Top 10 Tips For How to Choose a Surgeon

Surgery is a major undertaking. If you’ve been told you need surgery, you’re probably a bit anxious. You may not know what to expect. And you’re not sure how to choose a surgeon.

At our specialty surgical center, we have board-certified surgeons whose experience and expertise make them leaders in their field.

Because surgery presents such an important part of your healthcare, we wanted to provide you with our top 10 tips on how to choose a surgeon.

Top 10 Tips for How to Choose a Surgeon

1. Examine the Surgeon’s Credentials

What type of certifications does your surgeon have? What type of training have they experienced? Surgeons with fellowship training and certifications should be near the top of your list. It’s also important to review their educational credentials.

At Conway Medical Center, you’ll discover surgeons who have graduated from some of the leading medical programs in the country. In addition to certifications, they have also received extensive training.

2. Examine the Surgeon’s Experience

You should check to see if this particular surgeon has performed several successful cases of the procedure you need. When deciding how to choose a surgeon, be sure they have the specialization in the type of surgery you’ll have.

For example, at our Specialty Surgical Center, our team of experienced surgeons are skilled in procedures including:

• Hernia surgery
• Weight loss surgery
• Vascular surgery
• Cancer removal
• Appendectomies

And additional surgeries.

3. Examine the Quality of the Hospital

You should also carefully examine the hospital where the procedure is taking place. Check for accreditations and any recognitions the facility has received.

Conway’s Specialty Surgical Center has earned several awards, including being ranked #1 in our market for medical excellence and patient safety by CareChex. CareChex is a quality review company that provides ratings information of all health care systems and hospitals in the U.S.

We were also named a Center of Excellence for Hip and Knee Replacement by Blue Cross / Blue Shield.

4. Examine Hospital Affiliations

How to choose a surgeon is about more than accolades. It’s important to consider where your surgeon has privileges to operate. Some of these facilities may be out of network, so it’s important to speak to your health care representative. In addition, consider convenience and the facility’s location to where you live.

5. Get Referrals

Your primary care provider is one of the best sources of referrals. Ask them whom they would recommend for the surgery.

You may also want to ask friends or relatives who have had similar procedures in order to solicit their opinion.

6. Evaluate Their Communication Style

A cornerstone of quality health care is good communication. Your surgeon should be able to explain complex concepts in a way you can understand. They should also be able to clearly explain why you need the surgery, what to expect and what recovery will involve.

They should also encourage you to ask any questions you have.

Speaking of questions…

7. Make Sure They Take Time to Answer Your Questions

Surgery is a big step. You probably have some concerns that you need to express. Along with some questions that need to be addressed.

Your surgeon should always take time to answer your questions in a manner where you don’t feel rushed. You should never be apprehensive about asking them your questions and sharing any concerns prior to a surgery.

8. Ask Questions About the Surgical Team

Who will your surgeon be working with during the procedure, and what is their level of experience? You should also ask about any other health care professionals who will be assisting, such as the anesthesiologist or others.

9. Examine the Technology Used

Advanced surgical technology means better outcomes and shorter recovery times. At our Specialty Surgical Center, we utilize some of the most sophisticated technology. This includes the da Vinci Robotic Surgery System

Not every surgery will utilize a special surgical machine, but prior to your surgery, it’s important to understand what your surgical options are.

10. Understand What Your Insurance Covers

No one wants to be surprised by a bill. That’s why at Conway Medical Center, we strive to be accurate so you’ll know what to expect.

You should speak with your health insurance representative to understand how much of the surgery is covered, as well as if the doctor and hospital are considered in-network.

How to Choose a Surgeon? The Experts at CMC’s Special Surgical Center Check All the Boxes

At our Special Surgical Center, we have more than 90 surgeons who perform a variety of procedures. Each one is a leader in their field, representing decades of experience. Our numerous accolades demonstrate our dedication to creating healthier lives through the Pee Dee and Grand Strand regions.

If you believe you have an issue that could require surgery, speak to your primary care doctor. Your doctor can refer you to one of our surgical specialists.

If you don’t have a physician, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with one of our primary care doctors in Horry County. You can schedule an appointment online using the CMCcare app or by calling 843-347-8000.