Best General Surgeons in Fontana

Introduction to General Surgery in Fontana

Definition and scope of general surgery

General surgery is a medical specialty that focuses on abdominal contents including the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, appendix and bile ducts, as well as the thyroid gland. General surgeons also deal with diseases involving the skin, breast, soft tissue, and hernias.

Common procedures performed by general surgeons include appendectomies, cholecystectomies (gallbladder removal), hernia repairs, and various types of biopsies. They also perform minimally invasive procedures using laparoscopic techniques.

General surgery plays a significant role in overall healthcare by providing both emergency and elective surgical care. It is often the first line of treatment for many acute conditions and can be life-saving in critical situations.

The role of general surgeons in Fontana's healthcare system

Fontana, California, is home to several healthcare facilities, with Kaiser Permanente Fontana Medical Center being a prominent institution. This medical center, along with other local hospitals, provides a range of surgical services to the community.

The JSON data reveals that many of the top-rated general surgeons in Fontana are affiliated with Kaiser Permanente Fontana Medical Center, indicating its importance in the local healthcare landscape.

Selecting the right general surgeon is a key decision that can significantly impact a patient's treatment outcome and overall healthcare experience. Factors such as the surgeon's education, board certifications, experience, and patient ratings should be considered when making this choice.

The data shows that Fontana has a diverse group of general surgeons with various subspecialties, including some who also practice in areas such as colorectal surgery, vascular surgery, and critical care surgery. This variety allows patients to find surgeons who specialize in their specific needs.

Navigating the Doctor Selection Process in Fontana

Factors to consider when choosing a general surgeon

Board certifications and qualifications

• Review certifications from American Board of Surgery
• Consider additional specialized certifications

Experience and specializations

• Evaluate years of practice and types of procedures performed
• Look for surgeons with expertise in specific areas of general surgery

Hospital affiliations

• Check affiliation with Kaiser Permanente Fontana Medical Center
• Consider other hospital affiliations in the area

Patient reviews and ratings

• Examine star ratings and number of reviews
• Read patient feedback for insights into surgeon's care quality

Resources for researching general surgeons in Fontana

Online directories and rating websites

• Utilize Healthgrades for comprehensive surgeon profiles
• Explore other reputable medical rating platforms

Referrals from primary care physicians

• Consult with your primary care doctor for recommendations
• Discuss your specific surgical needs and preferences

Insurance provider networks

• Check in-network surgeons to minimize out-of-pocket costs
• Verify coverage details for specific procedures

Top-Ranked General Surgeons in Fontana

Dr. Nina Bowman

Education and Certifications

• Western University of Health Sciences (Medical School)
• American Osteopathic Board of Surgery certification

Hospital Affiliation

• Kaiser Permanente Fontana Medical Center

Patient Ratings

• 5.0 stars based on 3 reviews

Dr. Arinbjorn Jonsson

Certifications

• American Board of Surgery

Hospital Affiliation

• Emory Saint Joseph's Hospital

Patient Ratings

• 5.0 stars based on 3 reviews

Dr. Jane Ong

Education and Certifications

• University of California, Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine (1995)
• American Board of Surgery certification

Hospital Affiliation

• Kaiser Permanente Fontana Medical Center

Patient Ratings

• 5.0 stars based on 2 reviews

Dr. Taylor Ho

Education and Certifications

• University of California, Irvine School of Medicine (1994)
• American Board of Surgery certification

Hospital Affiliation

• Kaiser Permanente Fontana Medical Center

Patient Ratings

• 5.0 stars based on 2 reviews

Dr. Daniel Serna

Education and Certifications

• University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine (1995)
• American Board of Thoracic Surgery certification

Hospital Affiliations

• Kaiser Permanente Fontana Medical Center
• St. Bernardine Medical Center

Patient Ratings

• 4.5 stars based on 12 reviews

Additional Resources for Finding the Right General Surgeon in Fontana

Questions to Ask Potential Surgeons

Surgical Approach and Techniques

• Inquire about minimally invasive options
• Ask about the surgeon's experience with specific procedures

Expected Outcomes and Recovery

• Discuss anticipated recovery time
• Ask about potential limitations during recovery

Potential Risks and Complications

• Request information on procedure-specific risks
• Discuss the surgeon's complication rates

Seeking Second Opinions

When to Consider a Second Opinion

• For complex or high-risk procedures
• When unsure about the recommended treatment plan

Approaching Second Opinions

• How to request a second opinion
• Preparing for a second opinion consultation

Understanding Insurance and Costs

Verifying In-Network Providers

• Checking insurance coverage for Fontana surgeons
• Understanding out-of-network costs

Discussing Potential Expenses

• Requesting cost estimates for procedures
• Exploring payment plans or financial assistance options

Preparing for Your Surgical Consultation

Gathering Medical Information

• Compiling relevant medical records
• Bringing recent test results and imaging studies

Creating a List of Questions

• Preparing specific questions about your condition
• Noting concerns about the proposed surgery