Three Ways To Learn About Your Surgeon

Doing your due diligence before any surgery can help prevent a medical malpractice case.  It is imperative that you not only feel confident in your surgeon, but that you also have researched him/her to determine if they are fit to perform the surgery and have a clear record of successful surgeries.  

While performing the following tasks will not guarantee the absence of medical malpractice, they will allow you to feel confident in your choice of surgeons and have peace of mind that you’ve done all you can to get to know the person who is performing this intricate procedure.

1. Connecticut Department of Public Health:  The Department of Public Health (DPH) maintains records on all medical professionals in the state.  Viewing a physician’s profile on the DPH website will allow you to see any medical malpractice claims that were made against your surgeon within the last 10 years.  These records will also show if the surgeon has had any disciplinary actions taken against him/her in the state.

2. Check his/her board certifications: Medical professionals can be board certified which adds another layer of protection for you to check and get to know your surgeon.  There are a number of board certifications that your surgeon can get and you can research which ones he/she has here.    

3. Know his/her history:  While a surgeon cannot divulge patient information, you are well within your rights to ask about his/her history in performing a particular procedure.  What is the rate of success?  How many of these surgeries has he/she performed?  This will give you an idea of the experience level of the person who you are entrusting with you or your loved ones health and well-being.

If you take the steps outlined above you can feel comfortable in your choice and be ready to have a positive mindset going into your surgery.