You’ve finally decided to confront your orthopedic issue. Once you take the step toward finding a solution, the next necessity is to find a great orthopedic surgeon. While skill set is important, it is also helpful to find someone with other admirable qualities. The search is on! 

The Characteristics of a Great Orthopedic Surgeon

At South Shore Orthopedics, we are dedicated to helping patients find the right surgeon for them. With these characteristics in mind, you can see how they fit into your options easily. There is no reason to feel any doubt about the medical professional treating your condition. 

Mechanical Skill

The most important characteristic of a great orthopedic surgeon is their mechanical skill and expertise. While every orthopedic surgeon faces similar schooling, they often have a specialty that can be important to note if you have a particular part of the body that needs attention.  

Pay attention to the years of experience, list of certifications, and awards. These are a reflection of the doctor’s mechanical skill as it determines whether they have been able to reach those goals. This can easily be found online or even by asking the doctor themselves. 

Bedside Manner 

When you are choosing a doctor, you want to enjoy being around them. That is why a personable attitude is essential as well. You should feel comfortable speaking to your doctor to choose the best course of action for your health journey. This characteristic depends on personal thoughts the most because your desire for communication may look different than someone else’s. 

St. George’s University discusses the importance of your doctor listening. Often, a patient is telling the doctor exactly what they need to hear to diagnose them, if they do just listen. This can also make the way the doctor conveys information kinder and more inclined to keep the patient calm.   

Leadership Ability 

A great orthopedic surgeon is able to lead their team every step of the way. By displaying characteristics of confidence, they can make you feel comfortable in putting your trust in them regarding your health. When an orthopedic surgeon has to run a team, it is important they are doing it in a well-mannered way with successful results. You can observe this by even paying attention to the dynamic of the team as a whole. 

Takes A Realistic Approach

Great orthopedic surgeons must take a realistic approach to their patients’ cases to work towards success. With someone’s health, there is no room for over-promising or providing ideas that are out of the scope of one’s capabilities. When your doctor can provide you with actionable ideas and treatment that does not feel impossible, this is a sign that they are working with what they know they can make happen. 

Great Past Experience 

Hearing about others’ experiences with a great orthopedic surgeon can tell you a lot as well. Whether you talk to people who have had procedures with the doctor or read reviews online, you can get an idea of what they need. It is important to keep in mind that everyone’s experiences can vary but watching out for a commonality of opinions can be useful. Some of the best places to find this information are Healthgrades, Vitals, and even our own website

Finding a great orthopedic surgeon also means knowing what that looks like. These characteristics give you a great starting point to feel comfortable with your decision. You may even personally consider some of these as more important than others. Are you searching for a new great orthopedic surgeon? South Shore Orthopedics could be the solution you have been looking for. Check out our website or give us a call at (781) 337-5555 for more information.