If you or someone you love is struggling with erectile dysfunction (ED), incontinence, infertility, sexual and aging concerns, or any other urinary issues, it may often times be embarrassing to see a specialist such as a urologist. However, seeing a urologist may actually have profound effects on your quality of life and your overall health. Yet the age old question still remains to be answered for most patients: How do I determine which is the very best doctor in my area to help me with my health issues?
Start With Personal Recommendations From Your Family and Friends
One of the first things you should do is reach out and talk to your family and friends about which urologist they might recommend. Sometimes this subject is not the most comfortable to talk about, but if you do have a trusted friend or relative, it may be the best option for getting an honest and trusted opinion. Some people that you know and trust may have already previously experienced what you're going through and can share which urologist helped them, plus what you may perhaps expect by seeing a specialist.
Referrals From Another Doctor You Trust
If you are uncomfortable talking to a friend about their urologist, you can and should discuss this with a trusted physician. They can talk about any of your health concerns as well as recommend a urologist in the Philadelphia area. This is perhaps one of the most beneficial ways of finding a local urologist. A great way to phrase this question to your family doctor or other physician is to simply ask: "Who would YOU go see if you were suffering with the same condition or problem that I am?". After all, your doctor may have some personal experience with a similar condition and of course wants the very best for each of his or her patients.
Online Google Search for a Philadelphia Urologist
Lastly, one of the easiest ways you can find the best Philadelphia urologist to treat your condition is by searching Google (or your preferred online search engine of choice) and performing the research yourself. Most people actually prefer using this method, as they can find out all the information in the privacy of their own home. Although many find this a time consuming task, visiting each specialist's website can allow you to determine if the urologist is a good fit for making an appointment to discuss your issues and concerns. You should be able to see the physician's biography, plus also determine if the urologist is experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of your condition.
This method also typically allows you to read reviews from the specialist's previous patients, as well as gathering the information about the general symptoms, treatments and procedures in use today. However, it is always a good idea not to take anything about medical procedures as fact when looking online. Always talk with a physician first before making any decisions. Every doctor knows that "the person who treats themselves has a fool for a patient" and this is why physicians must also see specialists to treat their own needs.
Don't Be Afraid To Ask Your Doctor Questions
Many times you may feel that your urologist (or other doctor) is, perhaps, not meeting your needs. Sometimes a patient may find that the physician makes them feel uncomfortable, makes them feel rushed, or it simply seems that the physician is just not listening to you. Choosing a specialist by any of the methods that we have discussed (personal referral, MD referral or online search) will not guarantee that that the doctor is a good fit for you. So don't be afraid to ask some questions:
- How many patients have they actually treated with this same disorder? Do keep in mind that for some very rare conditions, this may mean a doctor who has treated just a few patients. For more common conditions, it’s usually a good idea to see a doctor who has treated hundreds of similar patients.
- How do you maintain your knowledge and skills in regards to my condition? It's critically important for all doctors – this applies to all specialties, ages and experience levels – to continue to improve their skills and to continue their medical education throughout their careers.
- Are you OK with my getting a second opinion? Excluding an emergency situation, it may sometimes be advisable to get a second (or even a third) opinion from another specialist if you feel the need to. After all, most people make it a habit to a get a second opinion when purchasing a new car, fixing up their home, etc., so why not with your personal health issues? Yet you may find that your doctor "discourages" patients from seeking out a second opinion. Keep in mind that a study funded by the federal Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality found that between ten to twenty percent of all diagnoses are missed, incorrect or delayed. So why would your specialist discourage one of their patients to get a second opinion?
About Philadelphia Urology Associates
At Philadelphia Urology Associates, you will receive expert and experienced guidance and care. We understand what you're going through and will "gently" guide you through what are, unfortunately, extremely intimate and personal health matters. Dr. Bruce Sloane and the entire staff will do whatever is possible to help you.
Dr. Bruce Sloane is a nationally renowned specialist in Men's Health issues and Age Management Medicine. Throughout Philadelphia and the surrounding areas like Delaware County, patients seek his expertise and advice to treat their urological problems such as erectile dysfunction and other sexual performance issues. Using state-of-the-art equipment and having extensive specialized education and training, Dr. Sloane will find the treatments and solutions that will work for you.
If you have any questions about the treatments available for any urological disorders, we urge you to contact us now online or call us at (215) 563-1199 today to discuss how we can help you!
