Best Gastroenterologists in Meridian
Updated September 19, 2024
Introduction to Gastroenterology in Meridian
Overview of Gastroenterology
Gastroenterology is a medical specialty that focuses on the digestive system and its disorders. This field encompasses the study, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract, including the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder.
Gastroenterologists in Meridian, Idaho, are equipped to address a wide range of digestive issues. These may include but are not limited to: acid reflux, ulcers, inflammatory bowel diseases (such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis), irritable bowel syndrome, gastrointestinal cancers, and liver diseases.
Importance of Choosing the Right Gastroenterologist
Selecting an appropriate gastroenterologist is a significant decision that can greatly affect your digestive health and overall quality of life. A skilled gastroenterologist can provide accurate diagnoses, develop effective treatment plans, and offer valuable guidance on maintaining optimal digestive health.
Specialized care in gastroenterology offers several advantages. Gastroenterologists undergo extensive training in their field, which equips them with in-depth knowledge of complex digestive disorders. They are also skilled in performing specialized diagnostic procedures such as endoscopies and colonoscopies, which are essential for detecting and treating many gastrointestinal conditions.
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List of Gastroenterologists in Meridian
Finding a Gastroenterologist in Meridian
Factors to Consider
Qualifications and Certifications
- Review educational background
- Check for board certifications
Experience and Specializations
- Years of practice in gastroenterology
- Specific areas of expertise within the field
Patient Reviews and Ratings
- Examine star ratings from healthgrades.com
- Consider the number of reviews
Accessibility and Location
- Proximity to your residence or workplace
- Availability of appointments
Resources for Doctor Selection
Online Platforms
- Utilize healthgrades.com for detailed information
- Explore other reputable medical review websites
Professional Recommendations
- Seek referrals from primary care physicians
- Consult with local medical associations
Insurance Network Directories
- Check with your insurance provider for in-network gastroenterologists
- Understand coverage for specialized gastroenterology services
Top-Rated Gastroenterologists in Meridian
Dr. Judith Woods
Overview
- Perfect 5-star rating (based on one review)
- University of Texas Medical Branch graduate (1986)
- Contact: (208) 695-2100
Key Information
- Gender: Female
- Languages: English
- Additional details: Limited information available
Dr. Christopher Hammerle
Overview
- 4-star rating with 9 reviews
- Saint Louis University Health Sciences Center graduate (2004)
- Contact: (208) 887-3724
Key Information
- Gender: Male
- Languages: English
- Additional details: Relatively recent graduate with positive patient feedback
Dr. Kirsten Sayson
Overview
- 3-star rating (based on 2 reviews)
- University of Washington graduate (2009)
- Contact: (208) 887-3724
Key Information
- Gender: Female
- Languages: English
- Specialties: Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine
- Board Certified: American Board of Internal Medicine
Dr. Stephen Schutz
Overview
- 2.9-star rating (based on 17 reviews)
- Albany Medical College graduate (1988)
- Contact: (208) 489-1900
Key Information
- Gender: Male
- Languages: English
- Board Certified: American Board of Internal Medicine
- Additional Training: Fellowship at Duke University Hospital (1994)
Additional Noteworthy Gastroenterologists
Dr. Robert Lockwood
- Specialties: Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology
- University of Virginia graduate (2014)
- Board Certified: American Board of Internal Medicine
- Contact: (208) 887-3724
Dr. Mark Dell'Aglio
- Specialties: Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine
- Drexel University College of Medicine graduate (1985)
- Board Certified: American Board of Internal Medicine
- Contact: (208) 343-6458
Additional Considerations for Choosing a Gastroenterologist
Language and Communication
Importance of clear doctor-patient communication
- Emphasize the need for effective communication in gastroenterology
- Discuss how language proficiency affects medical care quality
Available language options among Meridian gastroenterologists
- Note that all listed gastroenterologists speak English
- Highlight the importance of this for local patients
Gender Preferences
Availability of both male and female gastroenterologists
- Mention the presence of both male and female specialists in Meridian
- List Dr. Judith Woods and Dr. Kirsten Sayson as female options
- List Dr. Christopher Hammerle, Dr. Stephen Schutz, and others as male options
Considerations for patient comfort and preferences
- Discuss the importance of patient comfort in gastroenterology examinations
- Encourage patients to consider their personal preferences when choosing a doctor
Educational Background and Certifications
Importance of medical education and ongoing training
- Highlight the diverse educational backgrounds of Meridian gastroenterologists
- Mention notable institutions like Duke University Hospital and University of Washington
Relevance of board certifications
- Note that several listed doctors are certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
- Explain the significance of board certification in gastroenterology