Best Cardiothoracic Surgeons in Cary

Introduction to Cardiothoracic Medicine in Cary

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 range of procedures, from minimally invasive techniques to complex surgeries.

Cardiothoracic specialists play a significant role in managing various cardiovascular and respiratory conditions, including heart disease, lung cancer, and congenital chest abnormalities. Their expertise is essential for improving patients' quality of life and, in many cases, saving lives.

Overview of cardiothoracic care in Cary, North Carolina

Cary, North Carolina, boasts a robust healthcare system with several highly qualified cardiothoracic specialists. The city's proximity to major medical centers and research institutions contributes to the high standard of care available to residents.

Selecting the right cardiothoracic specialist is a key decision that can significantly impact a patient's treatment outcomes. Factors such as the doctor's experience, specializations, and patient satisfaction ratings should be carefully considered when making this important choice.

Selecting a Cardiothoracic Specialist in Cary

Factors to consider when choosing a doctor

Qualifications and certifications

• Review board certifications (e.g., American Board of Thoracic Surgery)
• Examine educational background and training institutions

Experience and specializations

• Consider years of practice and areas of expertise
• Look for specialists in cardiothoracic surgery and related fields

Hospital affiliations

• Evaluate associated hospitals like WakeMed Cary Hospital and UNC Hospital
• Consider proximity and quality of affiliated medical facilities

Patient reviews and ratings

• Examine star ratings and number of reviews on platforms like Healthgrades
• Read patient testimonials and experiences

Resources for researching doctors

Online platforms

• Utilize Healthgrades for comprehensive doctor profiles
• Check other reputable medical review websites

Local medical associations

• Consult North Carolina Medical Society for recommendations
• Seek referrals from primary care physicians or cardiologists in Cary

Top-Ranked Cardiothoracic Specialists in Cary

Dr. Alden Parsons

Qualifications and Experience

• Yale New Haven Hospital and University of North Carolina affiliations
• American Board of Thoracic Surgery certification

Specialties

• Thoracic Surgery
• Cardiothoracic Surgery

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 5.0-star rating with 7 reviews

Hospital Affiliations and Contact Information

• WakeMed Cary Hospital
• WakeMed Raleigh Campus
• Phone: (919) 231-6333

Dr. Benjamin Haithcock

Qualifications and Experience

• Michigan State University College of Human Medicine
• American Board of Surgery certification
• American Board of Thoracic Surgery certification

Specialties

• Cardiothoracic Surgery
• General Surgery
• Transplant Surgery

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 5.0-star rating with 3 reviews

Hospital Affiliations and Contact Information

• University of North Carolina Hospital
• Phone: (919) 966-1072

Dr. Jason Long

Qualifications and Experience

• Wake Forest University Medical School
• American Board of Thoracic Surgery certification

Specialty

• Cardiothoracic Surgery

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 4.3-star rating with 4 reviews

Hospital Affiliations and Contact Information

• University of North Carolina Hospital
• Phone: (919) 966-3383

Additional Considerations for Choosing a Cardiothoracic Specialist in Cary

Language and Communication

Importance of Clear Doctor-Patient Communication

• Emphasize the need for effective communication in cardiothoracic care
• Discuss how language proficiency affects patient understanding and outcomes

Language Options in Cary

• Note that all listed specialists are proficient in English
• Mention the potential need for interpreters for non-English speaking patients

Gender Considerations

Availability of Male and Female Specialists

• Highlight the presence of both male and female cardiothoracic surgeons in Cary
• Dr. Alden Parsons (Female)
• Dr. Benjamin Haithcock and Dr. Jason Long (Male)

Patient Comfort and Preferences

• Discuss the importance of patient comfort in choosing a specialist
• Encourage patients to consider personal preferences in gender selection

Hospital Affiliations

Local Hospital Networks

• WakeMed Health & Hospitals (Cary and Raleigh campuses)
• University of North Carolina Hospital system

Importance of Hospital Choice

• Discuss how hospital affiliations may affect treatment options
• Consider factors such as location and facility resources