Best Geriatric Doctors in Hayward

Introduction to Geriatrics and Its Importance in Hayward

Definition of Geriatrics

Geriatrics is a medical specialty that focuses on the health care of elderly people. It aims to promote health by preventing and treating diseases and disabilities in older adults.

This field of medicine addresses the complex needs of older patients, who often have multiple chronic conditions and require a comprehensive approach to care.

Significance of Geriatric Care in Hayward

In Hayward, California, the demand for geriatric care is increasing as the population ages. This trend highlights the importance of having skilled geriatricians available to meet the unique healthcare needs of older residents.

Specialized geriatric care is essential in Hayward to ensure that older adults receive appropriate treatment and support for age-related health issues, ultimately improving their quality of life.

Benefits of Choosing a Geriatric Specialist

Geriatric specialists offer a holistic approach to healthcare, considering not only physical health but also mental well-being, social factors, and overall quality of life.

These physicians are experienced in managing multiple chronic conditions simultaneously, which is common among older adults.

Geriatricians have in-depth knowledge of how the aging process affects the body and mind, allowing them to provide more targeted and effective care for older patients.

Overview of the Doctor Selection Process in Hayward

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Geriatrician

Board Certifications and Qualifications

• Review of American Board of Internal Medicine and American Board of Family Medicine certifications
• Importance of specialized training in Geriatric Medicine

Experience and Specializations

• Years of practice in Geriatric Medicine
• Additional specialties such as Hospice & Palliative Medicine or Internal Medicine

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• Examination of star ratings and number of reviews
• Importance of reading detailed patient feedback

Language Capabilities

• Availability of multilingual doctors (e.g., Dr. Shazia Mughal speaking English, Hindi, Punjabi, and Urdu)
• Importance for effective communication and cultural understanding

Hospital Affiliations

• Consideration of doctor's connections with local healthcare facilities
• Potential impact on continuity of care

Resources for Finding Geriatric Doctors in Hayward

Online Physician Directories

• Utilization of platforms like Healthgrades
• Benefits of comprehensive doctor profiles and patient reviews

Local Medical Associations

• Contacting Alameda-Contra Costa Medical Association for recommendations
• Accessing lists of board-certified geriatricians in the area

Recommendations from Primary Care Physicians

• Seeking referrals from trusted healthcare providers
• Leveraging existing medical relationships for informed choices

Top-Ranked Geriatric Doctors in Hayward

Dr. Michael Marchiano

Specializations and Experience

• Geriatric Medicine
• Hospice & Palliative Medicine
• Internal Medicine
• Graduated from American University of The Caribbean School of Medicine in 1986

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 4.6-star rating based on 9 patient reviews
• Indicates high patient satisfaction

Contact Information

• Phone: (510) 670-4773
• Gender: Male
• Languages: English

Dr. Shazia Mughal

Qualifications and Expertise

• Board Certified by American Board of Family Medicine
• Specializes in Family Medicine, Geriatric Medicine, Pediatric Medicine, and Hospital Medicine
• Graduated from University of the Punjab / Fatima Jinnah Medical College for Women

Language Capabilities

• Fluent in English, Hindi, Punjabi, and Urdu
• Valuable for Hayward's diverse community

Patient Feedback

• 4.2-star rating from 9 patient reviews
• Suggests positive patient experiences

Additional Notable Geriatric Specialists

Dr. Tannaz Shoja

• Specializes in Geriatric Medicine and Internal Medicine
• Board Certified by American Board of Internal Medicine
• Graduated from Lorestan College of Medical Sciences in 2009

Dr. Panch Jeyakumar

• Expertise in Geriatric Medicine, Critical Care Medicine, and Pulmonary Disease
• Board Certified by American Board of Internal Medicine
• Fluent in English and Spanish

Dr. Rajesh Rampal

• Focuses on Geriatric Medicine and Internal Medicine
• Board Certified by American Board of Internal Medicine
• Graduated from Kempegowda Institute of Medical Sciences in 1993

Additional Resources for Finding the Right Geriatric Doctor in Hayward

Questions to Ask Potential Geriatricians

Approach to geriatric care

• Inquire about their philosophy on aging and wellness
• Ask about their experience with common geriatric conditions

Coordination with other healthcare providers

• How they manage patients with multiple specialists
• Their approach to integrating care across different medical disciplines

Availability and communication

• Office hours and after-hours care options
• Preferred methods of patient communication (e.g., phone, email, patient portal)

Understanding Insurance and Medicare Coverage

Importance of checking insurance acceptance

• Verify if the doctor accepts your specific insurance plan
• Inquire about out-of-pocket costs for visits and procedures

Medicare coverage for geriatric services

• Overview of Medicare coverage for geriatric care in Hayward
• Information on supplemental plans that may enhance coverage

Preparing for Your First Appointment

Medical history documentation

• Compile a comprehensive list of past and current medical conditions
• Gather records from previous healthcare providers

List of current medications

• Include all prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements
• Note dosages and frequency of use

Questions and concerns to address

• Prepare a list of specific health concerns or symptoms
• Consider bringing a family member or caregiver for support and to help with information retention