Is your primary care physician concerned about how your hypertension or diabetes impacts your kidney function? Perhaps you have had some kidney stones or know that chronic kidney disease runs in your family. Then, you need the best possible diagnosis and treatment. Read here about how to find a nephrologist in your area who can help you with your kidney health and function.
What is a Nephrologist?
This is a word you may not hear every day. A nephrologist is a physician with advanced training and board-certification in diagnosing and treating kidney problems. such as chronic kidney disease (CKD), glomerulonephritis and polycystic kidney disease.
Nephrologists are also experts in managing the complications of other health conditions which impact the health and function of kidneys. Examples of these conditions are diabetes and high blood pressure.
If you have been diagnosed with kidney disease or are experiencing symptoms, such as blood in your urine or flank pain, seek treatment from a nephrologist right away. Finding a qualified nephrologist near you ensures you will receive expert care for your condition.
How to Find a Nephrologist in Marlborough, MA
Get a Referral
One way to find a nephrologist near you is by asking for referrals from your primary care physician or other specialists you trust. These professionals know your needs and your personality well and can recommend doctors which will provide the best diagnostic and treatment services.
Ask Family or Friends
Someone you know and trust may be seeing a nephrologist right now or have a significant other who does. So, ask around.
See what recommendations you can gather. Then, go online to familiarize yourself with the nephrologist’s qualifications and services.
Research Each Nephrologist on Your List
A little homework goes a long way in choosing a doctor right for your kidney health needs. Look at sites such as Healthgrades, Zocdoc or Yelp for reviews from other patients. Check out the doctor’s credentials and experience on their practice website, too. Learn if the nephrologist offers the services you may need.
The doctor’s biography gives you valuable information regarding their education, certification, years in practice and areas of special interest. Look for membership in professional associations because they indicate peer accountability and continuing education.
Consider Your Health Insurance
When choosing a nephrologist, consider your health insurance coverage. Make sure that the doctor you are interested in is within your network to avoid any unexpected costs.
You also should contact your insurance provider for a list of in-network nephrologists in your area. Finally, double check that the kidney doctor is in network by calling the office and speaking to the person in charge of health insurance. Ask about copays so you are fully prepared for any upcoming expenses.
Schedule a Consultation with a Nephrologist
Once you have narrowed down your options, schedule a consultation with a few different nephrologists. This way, you will understand their communication style and how comfortable you feel asking them questions. You should get complete and honest answers to questions such as, “What are my treatment options, and are there side effects?” and “Can I change my diet or other things in my lifestyle to improve my kidney health?”
This appointment will give you the opportunity to discuss the concerns you and your PCP have. Be specific about symptoms and your medical history.
Also, you will see how the doctor’s office runs when you go for an in-person appointment. Observe wait times, the comfort of the waiting room and cleanliness of the treatment rooms, as well as the demeanor of the support staff. It’s important that you feel respected and informed.
Finally, really think about the medical office location. Is it convenient to your home, school or place of employment? Is it on a public transportation line? Where will you park?
Are appointments relatively easy to get? Do you know how available the doctor is during off hours in case of an emergency or urgent medical matter? Is there a patient portal?
Nephrologist Near You in Marlborough, MA
At Commonwealth Nephrology Associates, our highly qualified team of nephrologists expertly and compassionately treat kidney problems with unparalleled diagnostic expertise. We have five doctors on staff at seven offices who treat kidney stones, electrolyte disorders, chronic and end stage kidney disease and more.
Please call us at (617) 739-2100 to learn more about how we can improve your kidney health and function or request an appointment here. Contact us today.
