Best Critical Care Specialists in Des Moines

Introduction to Critical Care Medicine in Des Moines

Definition and scope of Critical Care Medicine

Critical Care Medicine is a specialized field of healthcare that focuses on the diagnosis and management of life-threatening conditions. Critical Care Specialists, also known as intensivists, are physicians who provide care for patients with acute, life-threatening illnesses or injuries.

These specialists are trained to handle a wide range of complex medical situations, including respiratory failure, cardiovascular emergencies, severe infections, and multiple organ dysfunction. They work in intensive care units (ICUs) and are skilled in advanced life support techniques and the use of sophisticated medical technologies.

Importance of Critical Care Medicine in Des Moines

In Des Moines, the capital city of Iowa, Critical Care Medicine plays an essential role in the healthcare system. With a population of over 200,000 residents, Des Moines requires robust critical care services to meet the needs of its community and surrounding areas.

While specific statistics for Des Moines are not provided in the given data, it's important to note that critical care services are integral to major hospitals in the area, such as MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center and UnityPoint Health-Iowa Methodist Medical Center, which are mentioned in the doctor affiliations.

The process of choosing a Critical Care Specialist

Selecting the right Critical Care Specialist is an important decision that can significantly impact patient outcomes. When choosing a specialist, consider factors such as their educational background, board certifications, years of experience, and hospital affiliations.

The data provided shows that most top-rated Critical Care Specialists in Des Moines are board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine or the American Osteopathic Board of Surgery. Additionally, patient reviews and ratings, such as those available on Healthgrades, can offer valuable insights into a doctor's quality of care and patient satisfaction.

Top-Ranked Critical Care Specialists in Des Moines

Dr. Kerry Canady

Background and Qualifications

• Graduated from Des Moines University in 2005
• Board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
• Specializes in Critical Care Medicine, Pulmonary Disease, and Internal Medicine

Practice Information

• Affiliated with MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center
• Contact: (515) 247-4240

Patient Feedback

• Highest rated with 5.0 stars
• Based on 4 patient reviews

Dr. Jeffrey Maire

Education and Expertise

• Multiple educational qualifications including Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine
• Certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Surgery
• Specializes in Critical Care Surgery, Trauma Surgery, and General Surgery

Hospital Affiliations

• Affiliated with multiple hospitals including Audubon County Memorial Hospital
• Contact: (515) 247-3266

Patient Satisfaction

• Highly rated with 4.6 stars
• Based on 16 patient reviews

Dr. Michael Witte

Professional Background

• Graduated from University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth in 1977
• Board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
• Focuses on Critical Care Medicine and Internal Medicine

Practice Details

• Affiliated with MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center
• Contact: (515) 224-1777

Patient Reviews

• Rated 4.1 stars
• Based on 8 patient reviews

Additional Notable Specialists

Dr. Jason Wittmer

• Specializes in Pulmonary Disease, Critical Care Medicine, and Sleep Medicine
• Affiliated with multiple hospitals including Broadlawns Medical Center
• Rated 4.0 stars based on 4 reviews

Dr. Ohmar Coughlin

• Expertise in Critical Care Medicine, Pulmonary Disease, and Internal Medicine
• Affiliated with UnityPoint Health-Iowa Methodist Medical Center
• Rated 3.7 stars based on 7 reviews

Additional Resources for Finding the Right Critical Care Specialist in Des Moines

Online Physician Directories and Review Platforms

Healthgrades and Similar Websites

• Overview of Healthgrades as a resource
• Other reputable online directories for Des Moines doctors

Interpreting Online Ratings and Reviews

• Understanding star ratings and their significance
• Analyzing written reviews for valuable insights

Local Medical Associations and Hospitals

Des Moines Area Hospital Resources

• MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center physician finder
• UnityPoint Health-Iowa Methodist Medical Center doctor directory
• Broadlawns Medical Center provider search

Referrals from Primary Care Physicians

• Importance of consulting your primary care doctor
• How to request a referral to a Critical Care Specialist

Insurance Considerations

Verifying In-Network Providers

• Steps to check if a Critical Care Specialist is in-network
• Contacting insurance providers for up-to-date information

Understanding Coverage for Critical Care Services

• Types of critical care services typically covered
• Potential out-of-pocket costs and how to estimate them

Conclusion

Recap of Key Factors in Choosing a Critical Care Specialist

Importance of board certifications

• American Board of Internal Medicine certifications common among top specialists

Consideration of patient ratings and reviews

• Top-rated specialists have ratings ranging from 3.7 to 5.0 stars

Relevance of hospital affiliations

• MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center is a common affiliation

Emphasis on Thorough Research

Utilization of online resources

• Healthgrades and similar platforms provide detailed information

Consultation with primary care physicians

• Seeking referrals from trusted healthcare providers

Importance of Personalized Care

Considering individual health needs

• Matching specialist expertise with specific critical care requirements

Evaluating communication styles

• Ensuring comfort and trust with the chosen specialist