Learn some of the top questions to ask when searching for a nephrologist to guide you through chronic kidney disease.
If you have chronic kidney disease (CKD), it’s important to work with a qualified nephrologist, a kidney doctor, who can provide specialized treatment, insight, and guidance, as well as personalized care and support. Finding a nephrologist who you feel comfortable with is paramount in effectively managing your condition and preserving your kidney function as long and as optimally as possible. Whether you’re just starting your journey or seeking to switch healthcare providers, here are a few expert tips for choosing the right nephrologist for you or your loved one.*
If you have just received a diagnosis of CKD, your primary healthcare provider will likely refer you to a nephrologist with whom they are familiar. You can choose to see this nephrologist or search for your own. Either way, some beginning steps you can take to choose this all-important partner in your CKD journey include:
Asking around. In addition to your PCP’s referral, ask people you know and trust for additional recommendations. Recommendations can come from family members, friends, colleagues, or other doctors you go to. Keep a list of these names and do some research.
Researching credentials and experience. Check up on each nephrologist’s credentials. What is their medical background? Any malpractice claims or disciplinary actions against them? Do they specialize in working with a particular age group, or particular procedures? What do online reviews say about working with the specialist and with their office staff?
Researching hospital quality. Find out what hospital each doctor is affiliated with. Where would surgery or other necessary procedures be performed? What is the hospital’s reputation? How far is it from your home? Ask the same questions regarding dialysis centers that the doctors associate with.
Research increasingly proves that medical knowledge alone is not sufficient for achieving positive outcomes when it comes to healthcare.
It’s important for your health and wellbeing that you and your doctors have a good relationship. You should feel comfortable having open discussions with them about all areas of your life and health, since they all play a role and are all, in turn, affected by your forward journey with CKD.
Find out about each doctor’s experience and level of cultural competence with your specific demographic makeup regarding sex, gender, race, and ethnicity.
Once you’ve narrowed down your list, do some in-person research. What is the doctor’s communication style? How do they respond to your questions? Do they seem confident? Arrogant? Respectful? Forthcoming? Dismissive?
Lastly, learn what your insurance covers, and factor in practicalities by selecting a nephrologist who participates in your insurance plan. Ideally, you’ll find one whose credentials, experience, personality, and hospital affiliations align with your healthcare needs and preferences.
*Lewis, S. (2020, May 11). 8 Tips for Choosing a Nephrologist. Healthgrades.
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