Best Geriatric Doctors in Fort Collins

Introduction to Geriatric Medicine in Fort Collins

Definition and Importance of Geriatric Medicine

Geriatric medicine is a specialized branch of healthcare that focuses on the unique needs of older adults. As individuals age, they often face complex health issues that require specialized attention and care. Geriatricians are medical professionals who have expertise in managing the health concerns of elderly patients, including chronic diseases, cognitive changes, and functional decline.

The importance of geriatric care cannot be overstated, especially in a city like Fort Collins with a growing senior population. Specialized care for aging individuals helps maintain their quality of life, promotes independence, and addresses the specific challenges that come with advancing age.

Overview of Geriatric Care in Fort Collins

Fort Collins boasts a robust healthcare system with several well-regarded hospitals and medical centers. The city is home to Poudre Valley Hospital and Medical Center of the Rockies, both of which are affiliated with many of the geriatric specialists in the area.

Based on the available data, Fort Collins has a diverse group of healthcare providers specializing in geriatric care. This includes board-certified geriatricians, family medicine doctors with geriatric expertise, and allied health professionals such as occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists who focus on elderly care. The presence of these specialists indicates a strong commitment to addressing the healthcare needs of the senior population in Fort Collins.

Selecting a Geriatric Doctor in Fort Collins

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Geriatrician

Credentials and Board Certifications

• Review of medical education and training
• Importance of board certification in geriatric medicine
• Example: Dr. Rebecca Jackson's certification by American Board of Family Medicine

Experience and Specializations

• Years of practice in geriatric medicine
• Additional specialties that complement geriatric care
• Example: Dr. Mason Shamis's diverse specializations including family medicine and hospice care

Hospital Affiliations

• Importance of hospital affiliations for comprehensive care
• Notable affiliations in Fort Collins area
• Example: Poudre Valley Hospital and Medical Center of the Rockies

Patient Reviews and Ratings

• Significance of patient feedback in decision-making
• How to interpret star ratings and review counts
• Example: Dr. Xavier Herrera's 4.5-star rating from 23 reviews

Resources for Finding Geriatric Doctors in Fort Collins

Online Directories and Review Platforms

• Utilization of health-focused websites like Healthgrades
• Benefits of comparing multiple sources of information

Local Healthcare Networks

• Contacting local hospitals for referrals
• Exploring physician networks affiliated with Poudre Valley Hospital

Community Resources

• Senior centers and community health programs
• Local chapters of aging-related organizations

Top-Rated Geriatric Doctors in Fort Collins

Dr. Rebecca Jackson

Professional Background

• Board-certified by the American Board of Family Medicine
• Completed fellowship at OHSU and Portland VA Medical Center
• Graduated from A.T. Still University Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2007

Patient Satisfaction

• Perfect 5-star rating on Healthgrades
• Note: Rating based on a single review

Practice Information

• Affiliated with Poudre Valley Hospital
• Contact number: (970) 568-5810

Dr. Mason Shamis

Areas of Expertise

• Family Medicine
• Geriatric Medicine
• Hospice & Palliative Medicine
• Internal Medicine
• Preventive Medicine

Education and Certifications

• Board-certified by the American Board of Family Medicine
• Completed residency at Poudre Valley Hospital in 2010
• Graduated from Florida State University College of Medicine in 2007

Patient Feedback

• 4.5-star rating on Healthgrades
• Based on 15 patient reviews

Hospital Affiliations

• Medical Center of the Rockies
• Poudre Valley Hospital

Dr. Xavier Herrera

Specializations

• Geriatric Medicine
• Internal Medicine

Qualifications

• Board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
• Completed fellowship at SUNY Upstate Medical University Hospital
• Graduated from University Francisco Marroquin in 1998

Patient Satisfaction

• 4.5-star rating on Healthgrades
• Based on 23 patient reviews

Additional Information

• Multilingual: Fluent in English and French
• Affiliated with Medical Center of the Rockies and Poudre Valley Hospital
• Contact number: (970) 495-7410

Additional Geriatric Care Providers in Fort Collins

Allied Health Professionals

Speech-Language Pathology

• Overview of speech-language pathology in geriatric care
• Profile: Michelle Underhill, MA
• Specializations: Feeding, Eating & Swallowing Therapy, Voice Therapy

Occupational Therapy

• Role of occupational therapy in maintaining independence for seniors
• Profiles: Kelly Shields, MS and Cindy Greenfield, COTA
• Services offered by occupational therapists in geriatric care

Physical Therapy

• Importance of physical therapy in mobility and fall prevention
• Profiles: George Purcelley, PT and Dr. Maxwell Bringe, DPT
• Physical therapy interventions for common geriatric conditions

Importance of Multidisciplinary Care in Geriatrics

Comprehensive Care Approach

• Integration of various specialties for holistic elderly care
• Benefits of team-based healthcare for geriatric patients
• Coordination between primary care physicians and specialists

Patient-Centered Care Models

• Tailoring treatment plans to individual needs and preferences
• Involving family members and caregivers in the care process
• Addressing both medical and psychosocial aspects of aging