At different points of your life, you will have to choose a doctor who specializes in your problem area. This is particularly true when dealing with the pain of arthritis.
Typically the doctor you need is dictated by your condition, as well as the urgency of the situation. If you have a deep cut that needs stitches, basically any medical professional can handle that. If you have rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, you need a dedicated Riverside arthritis doctor, because such a chronic condition may require medical treatment for a lifetime, and technical competence may not necessarily be enough.
So, what do you need to look for in your Riverside arthritis doctor?
Studies on doctor-patient interaction show a positive relationship focused on individual needs is most beneficial in long-term health benefits. Many studies also show that patients who have a good relationship with their doctor find it easier to manage blood pressure, have a lower frequency of doctor visits, which results in reduced cost of medication, and generally enjoy more successful pain control.
Such a doctor-patient relationship is based on mutual respect and understanding. The patients will be more receptive of treatments if they feel that their needs and expectations are met, and will be more likely to follow the doctor’s orders, such as following a recommended treatment plan or taking their medication at the right time and in the right dose. This can mean the difference between pain-free, healthy joints and damaged ones, between enjoying a mobile lifestyle and becoming disabled.
Some qualities that you want in your Riverside arthritis doctor include:
* Experience treating your condition – Generally, the more experience your arthritis doctor has with your condition, the more adept he/she will be at recognizing its symptoms and treating it. For instance, a doctor who has little experience with gout may not make a timely diagnosis and prescribe the right treatment quickly as one who has dealt with many such patients.
* Accessibility – You need a doctor who is always available to return your calls or meet you in person when you’re in the midst of a flare or other medical reaction to reduce the risk of complications
* Up-to-date knowledge – While it is important to find a doctor you can connect well with, it is just as important that your doctor be up-to-date on the studies and techniques. Research on arthritis advances continually, and your doctor needs to be on top of the latest studies to ensure that you get the best care.
* Willingness to fight – Your care may require varied treatments including a surgical procedure, specialist referral, and medications. If your insurance is hesitant about paying for the treatments, your doctor should be willing to confront them.
One last consideration when choosing your Riverside arthritis doctor is finding out the effectiveness of his team. If the staff ignore your text messages, delete your emails, treat you rudely during visitations, or simply fail to do what they should, then you’ll be better off getting treatment in a more compassionate and caring environment.
Narrow your choices and make appointments to talk with each of your top Riverside arthritis doctors. Though it will take some time and effort, it will pay off in the long run.
