Best General Surgeons in Moreno Valley

Introduction to General Surgery in Moreno Valley

Definition 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, and often the thyroid gland. General surgeons also deal with diseases involving the skin, breast, soft tissue, trauma, peripheral vascular surgery and hernias.

General surgery plays a significant role in overall healthcare by providing both emergency and elective surgical interventions. These procedures are often life-saving and can significantly improve a patient's quality of life.

The landscape of general surgery in Moreno Valley

Based on the provided data, Moreno Valley has at least 28 practicing general surgeons, offering residents a range of options for their surgical needs.

Several major healthcare facilities in Moreno Valley offer general surgery services, including Riverside University Health System-Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente Moreno Valley Medical Center, and Loma Linda University Medical Center. These institutions provide state-of-the-art surgical care to the local community.

The Process of Choosing a General Surgeon in Moreno Valley

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Surgeon

Board Certification and Qualifications

• Review American Board of Surgery certifications
• Check additional certifications for specialized procedures

Experience and Specialization

• Evaluate years of practice and types of surgeries performed
• Consider surgeons with expertise in specific areas (e.g., Dr. David Caba Molina's specialization in Surgical Oncology)

Hospital Affiliations

• Examine connections to reputable hospitals like Riverside University Health System-Medical Center
• Consider convenience of hospital locations for post-operative care

Patient Reviews and Ratings

• Analyze star ratings from platforms like Healthgrades
• Read patient testimonials for insights into surgeon's bedside manner and outcomes

Steps to Take When Researching Surgeons

Consult with Primary Care Physician

• Seek referrals from trusted primary care doctors
• Discuss specific surgical needs and potential surgeon recommendations

Utilize Online Resources and Databases

• Explore Healthgrades and similar platforms for comprehensive surgeon profiles
• Verify credentials and patient feedback through multiple sources

Schedule Consultations with Potential Surgeons

• Prepare questions about surgical approach, recovery, and expected outcomes
• Assess communication style and comfort level with the surgeon

Top-Rated General Surgeons in Moreno Valley

Dr. Donald Moores

Background and Qualifications

• Medical degree from Loma Linda University (1987)
• Board certified by the American Board of Surgery
• Over 30 years of experience in general surgery

Hospital Affiliations

• Loma Linda University Medical Center
• Loma Linda University Children's Hospital
• Riverside University Health System-Medical Center

Patient Satisfaction

• 5-star rating on Healthgrades
• High patient satisfaction based on 5 reviews

Dr. Hector Ludi

Background and Qualifications

• Medical degree from National University of Cordoba Faculty of Medical Sciences (1979)
• Board certified by the American Board of Surgery
• Extensive experience in general and critical care surgery

Hospital Affiliations

• Riverside University Health System-Medical Center
• Desert Regional Medical Center

Patient Satisfaction

• 5-star rating on Healthgrades
• Positive patient feedback based on 5 reviews

Dr. David Caba Molina

Background and Qualifications

• Fellowship at University of Chicago Hospitals
• Board certified by the American Board of Surgery
• Expertise in surgical oncology, gastroenterological surgery, and public health

Hospital Affiliations

• Loma Linda University Medical Center
• Riverside University Health System-Medical Center

Patient Satisfaction

• 5-star rating on Healthgrades
• Positive feedback from 2 patient reviews

Additional Highly-Rated Surgeons

Dr. Stephanie Downing

• Medical degree from Rush University
• Board certified by the American Board of Surgery
• 5-star rating on Healthgrades

Dr. Edward Tagge

• Medical degree from Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine
• Board certified by the American Board of Surgery
• Expertise in pediatric surgery

Additional Considerations for Choosing a General Surgeon

Language and communication

Surgeons who speak multiple languages

• Dr. David Caba Molina (English, Spanish)
• Dr. Kari Jerge (English, Spanish)
• Dr. Ama Lacy (English, Spanish)
• Dr. Bakhtiar Ahmad (English, Spanish)

Importance of clear communication in surgical care

• Discussing complex medical information
• Understanding pre and post-operative instructions
• Addressing patient concerns and questions effectively

Specializations within general surgery

Surgeons with additional expertise

• Dr. Edward Tagge (Pediatric Surgery, Critical Care Surgery)
• Dr. David Caba Molina (Surgical Oncology, Gastroenterological Surgery)
• Dr. Kari Jerge (Critical Care Medicine, Trauma Surgery, Acute Care Surgery)
• Dr. Afshin Molkara (Vascular Surgery)

Matching surgeon expertise to specific surgical needs

• Considering the complexity of the required procedure
• Evaluating surgeons' experience with specific conditions
• Consulting with primary care physician for recommendations

Insurance and financial considerations

Checking insurance coverage and network participation

• Contacting insurance provider for in-network surgeons
• Verifying coverage for specific procedures
• Understanding out-of-pocket costs and deductibles

Discussing fees and payment options with surgical practices

• Inquiring about cost estimates for procedures
• Exploring payment plans or financial assistance programs
• Understanding billing processes for surgeon and facility fees