How to Find a Mesothelioma Specialist

It’s easy and convenient to rely on family and friends for a doctor reference when you need a general practitioner or a family doctor. But when you’re looking for a mesothelioma specialist, it may be hard to know where to turn.

There are just a few doctors who specialize in asbestos cancer because it is such a rare disease. Finding one who is perfect for you can be a difficult process. The following steps can help patients determine which treatment specialist works best for their needs.

Look for a treatment facility - 

Many large hospitals and medical centers nationwide have recognized the need to help asbestos-cancer patients. While the disease is rare, it is deadly. Mesothelioma treatment centers have been established to help these patients with the care they deserve. Some of the top cancer centers are staffed with experts that specialize in the treatment of mesothelioma cancer.

Check your insurance company - 

Once you’ve found several doctors who you’d like to see, check with your insurance company. Many insurance companies can help with information that includes educational background, gender, years in practice and hospital affiliations.

Internet Research - 

Make sure your specialist is board certified through the American Board of Medical Specialties. This ensures that the doctor lives up to a higher professional standard than noncertified doctors. Check out the doctor’s website and online reviews. Don’t rule them out immediately if there are negative reviews but you like the doctor. Keep the negative reviews in mind when making a decision.

Pay Attention During Visits - 

When making the appointment, note the professionalism of the office staff. Once there, do the same with the nurses, physician’s assistants and techs. Ensure the facility is clean and uncluttered. Keep a mental note of the timeliness of the appointment and convenience of the location.

Ask the right questions - 

Don’t be shy about asking the nurse questions about the office and how it’s run. Is it crazy busy all the time? Is the doctor always running late? How many nurses work there? Sometimes they can be the best source of information. Once you see the doctor, make sure to ask the right questions and note if the doctor seemed uninterested and rushed.

Get second and third opinions, if needed - 

If the first or second doctor doesn’t meet your expectations, don’t feel shy about finding another. Remember that no doctor or office staff will be perfect, but you do have the right to have quality medical care. Go with your instinct - In the end, you might have two or three great doctors to choose from. Decide what you want and need in a doctor and make your decision.