How to Rate Orthopedic Doctors

Orthopedic doctors treat problems of the musculoskeletal system--bones, joints, ligaments and tendons--after years of specialized training. Rating orthopedic doctors is a simple process, once you consider the qualities that are critical to being a successful orthopedic doctor.

Instructions

Rate Orthopedic Doctors

• 1

  Consider your orthopedic doctor's training and certification. This might seem basic, but they are the foundation of a good rating for an orthopedic doctor. Where did he go to medical school? Did he graduate with any special honors, or receive recognition for special studies or volunteer projects? Where did he complete his residency, and did he complete any specialized training (a fellowship) in a particular disease? Was this hospital known for orthopedic training? Does he have board certification from the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery? Most of this information is viewable through either the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery's website (see Resources section) or the website for the American Board of Medical Specialties (see Resources section)--or you can just ask the doctor. Academic honors, volunteer projects, special training and board certification boost an orthopedic doctor's rating.

• 2

  Check the status of your orthopedic doctor's medical license. Have any complaints been lodged against him? Any lawsuits for malpractice? Understanding that your state licenses your orthopedic doctor to practice medicine, and he is clear of malpractice cases, is easy information to find through your state board of medicine (see References section). A clear license to practice medicine, with no complaints or legal action, will reflect favorably on the doctor's rating.

• 3

  Consider your orthopedic doctor's bedside manner. Is he easy to talk to? Does he explain things to you in a manner that is easy to understand? Do you feel comfortable asking him questions if there is something you do not understand? Does he welcome questions? Does he take the time to make sure all of your questions are answered? Although training, education and medical skills are important, so are "soft" skills such as the ability to listen to patients, the ability to explain things carefully and clearly, and the ability to put a patient at ease. This is especially true given some of the serious problems that orthopedic doctors treat.

• 4

  Think about your orthopedic doctor's office and office habits. Is she usually on time for your appointments, or do you have a long wait even if you arrive early? Is she available by phone or email if you have a question after the appointment? Is the information in your chart recorded correctly so she has the necessary information from your previous visits? Does it feel she is rushing? Although many of these qualities can relate to the doctor's staff and office organization, they will still reflect on how you rate her.

• 5

  Factor in a few personal preferences when you rate your orthopedic doctor. Is his office close to your home or office? Is he part of your health insurance company's network of physicians, or will a visit cost extra because he is a non-network doctor? Is his staff friendly? Are the nurses in his office readily available if you cannot reach the doctor for a question? These qualities are not as important as the doctor's training and licensure or how he treats patients, but they still affect whether a visit with him receives a good rating.