How to Find a Doctor for Disc Disease

When searching for a doctor to treat degenerative-disc disease, don't just trust the "M.D." tagged on the end of a name. Doing some background research is fairly easy in today's web-focused world, and the results could be well worth your effort. According to MDNationwide, an estimated 50 to 60 percent of physicians are sued at least once during their career, and a little legwork on your part can prevent you from becoming part of those statistics.

Instructions

• 1

  Contact the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS). This nonprofit organization, composed of 24 medical specialty boards, lists 145 specialties and sub-specialties in which it offers certification. Start compiling your own list of orthopedic doctors and/or surgeons in your area. ABMS also provides numerous links and resources to other medical organizations that can aid in your search.

• 2

  Contact the state medical board. Although information here might be limited, you can generally verify doctors you are considering are licensed and board-certified and find any background on disciplinary action.

• 3

  Use an Internet service. Services such as MDNationwide will charge you for a full background report, but the information is often extensive. You can expect to read results on the doctor's training, education, awards, any malpractice history and license and board-certification status.

• 4

  Contact your insurance company. Some insurance companies have networks of physicians. Check if the doctors you are considering are included in that network, which will usually result in lower out-of-pocket expenses for you.

• 5

  Interview various doctors. Ask how much experience they have in treating disc disease and what their success rate is with similar patients. According to the Mayo Clinic, pain generally improves within one to four weeks and can be managed with conservative treatments. Ask potential doctors what their treatment plans include.