How to Research a Surgeon

When you are faced with surgery, you often look to your primary care physician to make a referral. Your search for the right surgeon does not have to stop there, however. If time allows, do some investigating on your own to ensure that you have the best surgeon available to conduct your surgery. Taking the decision into your own hands will help you to feel confident that you have made the best possible choice for your particular needs.

Instructions

• 1

  Ask your primary care physician to give you several choices of surgeons.

• 2

  Check out the surgeon's background and certifications in the "Directory of Medical Specialists" at your local library.

• 3

  Research credentials and certifications through the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) at its website.

• 4

  Look for the initials "F.A.C.S." after his name to see if the surgeon is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (ACS). This organization requires the surgeon to pass a comprehensive evaluation of professional standards and ethics. Contact the ACS for a list of its fellows in your locale.

• 5

  Check the surgeon's biographical information on the internet, if possible. Any professional organizations should be listed. Contact the organizations to find out the status of the surgeon. Research medical societies or professional organizations that the surgeon has listed. Many such organizations require continuing education for membership.

• 6

  Request the number of times the surgeon has performed the type of surgery you are having. As a guide, the ACS suggests that when finding a surgeon for open-heart surgery, a patient should choose a team that completes 150 surgeries each year.

• 7

  Contact the Federation of State Medical Boards to find out if your surgeon has been involved in serious disciplinary action or malpractice.