If you suffer from uterine fibroids, you’re not alone. Approximately 26 million women between the ages of 15 and 50 have uterine fibroids in the United States.
Of these, about 15 million are likely to experience symptoms or related health concerns, according to the National Library of Medicine.
When faced with uterine fibroids symptoms, selecting the right fibroid specialist becomes an important decision in relieving your symptoms because several new treatment options have emerged.
This comprehensive guide offers 7 essential tips to find a fibroid specialist who aligns with your unique needs and treatment goals.
- Credentials and Experience Treating Fibroids
When searching for a fibroid specialist, it’s essential to verify their credentials and experience thoroughly:
- Board Certification: Look for a physician who is board-certified in Diagnostic and Interventional Vascular Radiology. This specialty requires extensive training in minimally invasive procedures for fibroid treatment.
- Years of Experience: Consider the number of years the Interventional Radiologist has been practicing, particularly in fibroid treatment.
- Continuing Education: Check if the fibroid specialist regularly attends conferences or workshops to stay updated on the latest advancements in fibroid treatment.
- Certifications: Obtaining certification from specialized boards like the American Board of Venous & Lymphatic Medicine (ABVLM) can indicate a fibroid specialist’s commitment to excellence and expertise in their field. Obtaining additional certifications such as the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine shows a further commitment to exercising skills in minimally invasive catheter directed procedures.
- Specialization in Fibroid Treatment
Seeking a specialist who focuses specifically on fibroids and related conditions can significantly impact your treatment outcome:
- Dedicated Practice: Look for a physician whose practice is primarily dedicated to fibroid treatment.
- Case Volume: Ask about the number of fibroid cases the specialist handles annually. Higher volume often correlates with greater expertise.
- Research Involvement: A specialist involved in fibroid-related research may have access to leading-edge treatments and a deeper understanding of the condition.
- Fibroid Treatment Options
An experienced fibroid specialist should offer a range of fibroid treatment options to suit various patient needs and preferences:
- Uterine Fibroid Embolization: A minimally invasive procedure, UFE shrinks fibroids by cutting off their blood supply. Ask about the specialist’s success rates and how many UFE procedures they’ve performed
- Patient-Centered Care
Choose a fibroid specialist who prioritizes patient-centered care and takes a holistic approach to fibroid treatment:
- Comprehensive Evaluation: The fibroid specialist should conduct a thorough assessment, including:
– Detailed medical history
– Physical examination
– Appropriate imaging studies (ultrasound, MRI, etc.)
– Blood tests to rule out anemia or hormonal imbalances
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Look for a fibroid specialist who personalizes treatment recommendations to your specific situation, considering factors such as:
– Fibroid size and location
– Severity of symptoms
– Desire for future fertility
– Overall health and lifestyle
- Shared Decision-Making: The fibroid specialist should involve you in the decision-making process, explaining the pros and cons of each fibroid treatment option.
- Facility Quality
The quality of the facility where the specialist practices can significantly impact your treatment experience and outcomes:
- State-of-the-Art Equipment: Ensure the facility has modern imaging technology (e.g., high-resolution ultrasound, MRI) and up-to-date treatment devices.
- Comfort and Convenience: Consider factors like location, parking, waiting areas and overall ambiance.
- Safety Protocols: Ask about the facility’s safety record and protocols for minimizing complications and infections.
- Reviews and Referrals
Gathering insights from other patients can provide valuable perspectives on a fibroid specialist’s skills and care approach.
- Online Reviews: Check reputable healthcare review sites, but be mindful that individual experiences can vary.
- Patient Testimonials: Ask the fibroid specialist’s office if they can connect you with former patients willing to share their experiences.
- Support Groups: Consider joining local or online fibroid support groups such as the Fibroid Foundation to learn from other patients’ experiences and recommendations.
- Communication Skills
Effective communication is crucial for a positive doctor-patient relationship and optimal treatment outcomes:
- Clear Explanations: The fibroid specialist should be able to explain complex medical concepts in understandable terms.
- Active Listening: Look for a fibroid specialist who listens attentively to your concerns and asks thoughtful questions.
- Responsiveness: Consider how quickly and thoroughly the fibroid specialist’s office responds to your inquiries.
- Follow-Up Care: Ask about the fibroid specialist’s protocol for post-treatment follow-up and ongoing management of your fibroids condition.
By carefully considering the above factors, you’ll be well-equipped to choose a fibroid specialist who can provide the highest quality care tailored to your individual needs.
Remember, finding the right fibroid specialist is an important step toward effectively managing your fibroids and improving your overall quality of life.
Trust Your Care to a Leading Fibroid Specialist
Dr. Scott Buckner is a renowned fibroid specialist with over 30 years of experience in minimally invasive procedures.
As an Interventional Radiologist, he has established himself as a highly sought-after physician in the field of fibroid treatment. Here’s why Dr. Buckner stands out as a fibroid specialist:
- Extensive Expertise: Dr. Buckner has been performing Uterine Fibroid Embolization for 24 years, making him one of the most experienced specialists in this highly effective procedure.
- Board Certifications: He is board-certified in Diagnostic and Interventional Vascular Radiology, as well as by the American Board of Venous & Lymphatic Medicine.
- Specialized Training: Dr. Buckner completed a fellowship in interventional radiology at the University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh Vascular Institute, further honing his skills in vascular procedures.
- Recognition: He is recognized as a top fibroid specialist throughout the Maryland region, featured on major networks like CNN Headline News and FOX News.
- Patient-Centered Approach: Dr. Buckner is known for his ability to explain conditions well and his trustworthiness, as reported by patients.
With his combination of technical expertise and compassionate care, Dr. Buckner offers a comprehensive approach to fibroid treatment.
His extensive experience in UFE and other minimally invasive procedures ensures that you receive the most advanced and effective treatments available.
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Buckner at Buckner Vein and Aesthetics today.