Question Your Provider
Ask your provider about their credentials. First, make sure they meet all the minimum requirements of a practicing orthopedist in the U.S. These include a 4-year MD or DO degree and a residency. Then, don’t be afraid to ask if they are certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgeons, if they completed fellowship training, how long they have been practicing, and about their areas of specializations.
Also, make sure you feel comfortable with your doctor. He or she will be making possibly life-altering decisions for you, so it is important that you trust him or her. Choosing the right specialist is crucial to the success of your recovery.