Best Cardiothoracic Surgeons in Berkeley

Introduction to Cardiothoracic Medicine in Berkeley

Definition and scope of cardiothoracic medicine

Cardiothoracic medicine is a specialized field that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the heart, lungs, and chest.

This medical specialty encompasses a wide range of procedures and treatments, from complex heart surgeries to minimally invasive lung interventions.

Cardiothoracic specialists in Berkeley are trained to handle various conditions, including coronary artery disease, heart valve disorders, lung cancer, and chest wall abnormalities.

Importance of selecting the right cardiothoracic specialist

Choosing the right cardiothoracic specialist is a significant decision that can greatly influence patient outcomes.

The intricate nature of cardiothoracic procedures requires a high level of expertise and experience from the medical professional.

In Berkeley, patients have access to a range of highly qualified cardiothoracic surgeons, each with unique skills and specializations.

Careful consideration of a doctor's qualifications, experience, and patient satisfaction rates can help ensure the best possible care for complex cardiac and thoracic conditions.

Overview of Doctor Selection Process in Berkeley

Factors to consider when choosing a cardiothoracic doctor

Board certifications and qualifications

• American Board of Thoracic Surgery certification
• Additional certifications such as American Board of Surgery

Experience and education

• Medical school background
• Fellowship and residency information
• Years of practice in cardiothoracic medicine

Patient ratings and reviews

• Star ratings on platforms like Healthgrades
• Number of patient reviews
• Qualitative feedback from patients

Language capabilities

• Doctors who speak multiple languages
• Importance for diverse patient populations

Resources for finding cardiothoracic specialists in Berkeley

Online directories and rating websites

• Healthgrades profiles and ratings
• Other medical professional directories

Hospital affiliations

• Checking doctor associations with reputable hospitals
• Considering proximity and accessibility of affiliated hospitals

Professional networks and associations

• Local medical societies
• Cardiothoracic surgery associations

Top-Ranked Cardiothoracic Doctors in Berkeley

Dr. Jeffrey Velotta

Education and Certifications

• George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences (2005)
• American Board of Surgery certified
• American Board of Thoracic Surgery certified

Patient Satisfaction

• 5.0-star rating based on 5 reviews
• Specializes in General Surgery and Cardiothoracic Surgery

Contact Information

• Phone: (510) 752-6405
• Gender: Male
• Languages: English

Dr. Simon Ashiku Jr

Education and Experience

• Harvard Medical School (1992)
• Specializes in Cardiothoracic Surgery

Patient Satisfaction

• 5.0-star rating based on 7 reviews

Contact Information

• Phone: (510) 752-6405
• Gender: Male
• Languages: English

Dr. Junaid Khan

Education and Certifications

• University of California, Los Angeles (1989)
• Fellowship at University of California, San Francisco
• American Board of Thoracic Surgery certified

Patient Satisfaction

• 4.9-star rating based on 32 reviews
• Specializes in Cardiothoracic Surgery and General Surgery

Contact Information

• Phone: (510) 465-6652
• Gender: Male
• Languages: English, Hindi, Urdu

Dr. Hon Lee

Education and Certifications

• Brown University Alpert Medical School (1986)
• Fellowship at Oregon Health & Science University (1995)
• American Board of Thoracic Surgery certified

Patient Satisfaction

• 5.0-star rating based on 4 reviews
• Specializes in Cardiothoracic Surgery

Contact Information

• Phone: (408) 851-3780
• Gender: Male
• Languages: English

Dr. Paul Lapunzina

Education and Certifications

• New York University Grossman School of Medicine (1992)
• American Board of Thoracic Surgery certified

Patient Satisfaction

• 5.0-star rating based on 2 reviews
• Specializes in Cardiothoracic Surgery

Contact Information

• Gender: Male
• Languages: English

Additional Resources for Finding the Right Cardiothoracic Doctor in Berkeley

Questions to Ask Potential Doctors

Surgical Experience and Success Rates

• Inquire about the number of procedures performed annually
• Ask about specific success rates for relevant procedures

Approach to Patient Care and Communication

• Discuss preferred methods of communication
• Ask about involvement of patients in decision-making process

Availability and Emergency Care

• Inquire about after-hours availability
• Ask about the protocol for emergencies

Understanding Insurance Coverage and Network Restrictions

Verifying In-Network Providers

• Contact insurance provider to confirm coverage
• Discuss potential out-of-pocket costs with the doctor's office

Exploring Out-of-Network Options

• Inquire about any exceptions for specialized care
• Discuss possible payment plans or financial assistance

Importance of Seeking Second Opinions

Benefits of Multiple Perspectives

• Discuss how second opinions can confirm diagnoses
• Explore potential alternative treatment options

Process of Obtaining Second Opinions

• Ask primary doctor for referrals to other specialists
• Research other highly-rated cardiothoracic surgeons in Berkeley

Patient Support Groups and Educational Resources

Local Support Groups

• Investigate cardiothoracic patient groups in Berkeley
• Inquire about hospital-affiliated support programs

Online Resources

• Explore reputable medical websites for information
• Join online forums for patients with similar conditions

Educational Materials

• Request brochures or pamphlets from doctor's offices
• Attend seminars or webinars on cardiothoracic health