Best Gastroenterologists in Lakeland

Introduction to Gastroenterology in Lakeland

Definition and scope of gastroenterology

Gastroenterology is a medical specialty that focuses on the digestive system and its disorders. In Lakeland, Florida, gastroenterologists play an essential role in diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract, liver, and related organs.

Gastroenterologists in Lakeland are equipped to handle various digestive system disorders, including but not limited to, acid reflux, ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease, and colorectal cancer. They employ advanced diagnostic techniques and treatments to address these conditions effectively.

Common conditions treated by gastroenterologists in Lakeland include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, hepatitis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). These specialists also perform important screening procedures such as colonoscopies for early detection of colorectal cancer.

Importance of choosing the right gastroenterologist

Selecting the right gastroenterologist in Lakeland is a significant decision that can greatly influence your digestive health. The expertise and experience of your chosen specialist can make a substantial difference in the accuracy of diagnosis and the effectiveness of treatment plans.

A skilled gastroenterologist can provide precise diagnoses using state-of-the-art techniques and develop tailored treatment strategies that address your specific condition. This personalized approach can lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life for patients with digestive disorders.

Beyond treating existing conditions, gastroenterologists in Lakeland play a key role in preventive care and long-term health management. Regular check-ups and screenings can help detect potential issues early, allowing for timely intervention and potentially preventing more serious complications down the line.

By establishing a strong relationship with a trusted gastroenterologist, patients in Lakeland can benefit from ongoing support and guidance in maintaining optimal digestive health. This collaborative approach to healthcare can lead to better overall health outcomes and enhanced well-being.

Finding a Gastroenterologist in Lakeland

Overview of the doctor selection process

Factors to consider when choosing a specialist

• Education and training background
• Board certifications
• Patient ratings and reviews
• Years of experience
• Language capabilities

Resources for researching doctors in Lakeland

• Online directories and review platforms
• Local medical associations
• Recommendations from primary care physicians
• Word-of-mouth from family and friends

Understanding doctor ratings and reviews

Explanation of star ratings and review counts

• Healthgrades star rating system (1-5 stars)
• Significance of the number of reviews
• Comparison of ratings among Lakeland gastroenterologists

How to interpret patient feedback

• Looking for patterns in reviews
• Considering both positive and negative feedback
• Evaluating the relevance of comments to your specific needs

Top-Rated Gastroenterologists in Lakeland

Dr. Tammy Gebo-Seaman

Credentials and Experience

• Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
• American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine certification
• Specializes in Gastroenterology

Patient Satisfaction

• Perfect 5.0-star rating on Healthgrades
• 5 patient reviews
• Known for excellent patient care

Practice Information

• Gender: Female
• Languages: English
• Contact: (863) 607-3642

Dr. Louis Saco

Education and Expertise

• Extensive educational background including University of North Carolina and Georgetown University
• Fellowship at University of North Carolina
• American Board of Internal Medicine certification

Specialties

• Gastroenterology
• Internal Medicine

Patient Reviews

• 4.6-star rating on Healthgrades
• 11 patient reviews
• Highly regarded in the Lakeland medical community

Contact Information

• Gender: Male
• Languages: English
• Phone: (863) 680-7000

Dr. Sonaly Patel

Professional Background

• Medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine
• American Board of Internal Medicine certification
• Focused practice in Gastroenterology

Patient Satisfaction Metrics

• 4.3-star rating on Healthgrades
• 15 patient reviews
• Recognized for quality care

Additional Information

• Gender: Female
• Languages: English and Hindi
• Contact number: (863) 284-5000

Additional Considerations for Choosing a Gastroenterologist in Lakeland

Language and Communication

Multilingual Gastroenterologists in Lakeland

• Dr. Sonaly Patel (English, Hindi)
• Dr. Roger Montenegro (English, Spanish)
• Dr. Joffre Rivera (English, Spanish)
• Dr. David Vargas (English, Spanish)
• Dr. Lijian Wang (English, Chinese)

Importance of Clear Communication

• Complex nature of digestive disorders
• Need for detailed medical history and symptom description
• Understanding treatment plans and follow-up instructions

Gender Preferences in Gastroenterology Care

Female Gastroenterologists in Lakeland

• Dr. Tammy Gebo-Seaman
• Dr. Sonaly Patel

Male Gastroenterologists in Lakeland

• Dr. Obada Tabbaa
• Dr. Louis Saco
• Dr. Ugochukwu Nzeako
• Others available (refer to full list)

Considering Personal Comfort

• Importance of open communication
• Gender preferences for certain procedures
• Building trust in doctor-patient relationship

Professional Qualifications and Experience

Board Certifications

• American Board of Internal Medicine (common among listed doctors)
• American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine (Dr. Tammy Gebo-Seaman)

Educational Background

• Notable institutions (e.g., Mayo Clinic, Georgetown University)
• Fellowships and specialized training
• Continued medical education

Years of Experience

• Considering graduation years and career length
• Balance between experience and up-to-date practices