Best Geriatric Doctors in Columbia
Updated September 19, 2024
Introduction to Geriatrics and Its Importance in Columbia, MO
Definition of Geriatric Medicine
Geriatric medicine is a specialized field of healthcare dedicated to the unique needs of older adults. It focuses on managing complex health conditions that often accompany aging and aims to enhance the overall quality of life for seniors.
Geriatricians are trained to address multiple chronic conditions simultaneously, considering how these conditions and their treatments interact with each other and impact the patient's daily life.
The Growing Need for Geriatric Care in Columbia
Columbia, Missouri, like many cities across the United States, is experiencing a significant growth in its aging population. This demographic shift underscores the increasing importance of geriatric care in the community.
Older adults often face unique healthcare challenges, including multiple chronic conditions, cognitive changes, and reduced mobility. These complex needs require specialized care and attention from healthcare professionals trained in geriatrics.
The Role of Geriatricians
Geriatricians take a comprehensive approach to elderly care, considering not only physical health but also mental well-being, social factors, and overall quality of life. They are skilled in managing multiple medications and understanding how various health conditions interact in older patients.
These specialists often serve as coordinators of care, working closely with other healthcare professionals such as primary care physicians, specialists, physical therapists, and social workers to ensure holistic care for their patients.
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List of Geriatric Doctors in Columbia
American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians
UMKC-Truman Medical Center (Fellowship Hospital, 2007)
Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine (Medical School, 2003)
Washington University In Saint Louis (1994)
BEREA COLLEGE (Undergraduate School, 1992)
English
Chinese
Spanish
Geriatric Medicine
Family Medicine
Dr. Raman Puri
3.2
Columbia, MO
Sex
Male
Languages
English, Hindi
None Required (Fellowship Hospital)
University of Missouri - Columbia B.S. Biochemistry (Undergraduate School)
Internal Medicine Residency, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, MO (Residency Hospital, 1999)
Internal Medicine Residency, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, MO (Internship Hospital, 1997)
University of Missouri School of Medicine (Medical School, 1996)
None Required ()
English
Hindi
Internal Medicine
Geriatric Medicine
Critical Care Medicine
Hospital Medicine
Doctor Selection Process in Columbia
Key Factors in Choosing a Geriatrician
Board Certifications and Specializations
- American Board of Family Medicine
- American Board of Internal Medicine
- American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians
Educational Background
- Medical school information
- Residencies and fellowships
Patient Ratings and Reviews
- Star ratings from healthgrades
- Number of reviews provided
Available Resources for Doctor Search
Online Platforms
- Healthgrades website
- Other medical directories
Local Healthcare Networks
- University of Missouri Health Care
- Other local hospitals and clinics
Understanding Doctor Profiles
Interpreting Credentials
- Types of certifications
- Relevance of educational background
Evaluating Patient Feedback
- Significance of star ratings
- Considering the number of reviews
Top-Ranked Geriatricians in Columbia
Dr. Karli Echterling Urban
Background and Qualifications
- Board-certified in Family Medicine
- Education: University of Missouri / Columbia Campus
- Specializes in Geriatric Medicine and Family Medicine
Patient Ratings and Reviews
- 5.0-star rating based on 4 reviews
- Contact: (573) 884-7733
Dr. Steven Zweig
Experience and Specializations
- Board-certified in Family Medicine
- Specializes in Geriatric Medicine, Hospice & Palliative Medicine, and Family Medicine
- Graduated from University of Missouri / Columbia Campus in 1979
Patient Feedback
- 5.0-star rating based on 3 reviews
- Contact: (573) 884-7733
Dr. Manuel San
Unique Qualifications
- Board-certified by American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians
- Specializes in Geriatric Medicine and Family Medicine
- Multilingual: Fluent in English, Chinese, and Spanish
Patient Satisfaction
- 5.0-star rating based on 3 reviews
- Contact: (573) 234-1800
Dr. Paul Tatum III
Areas of Expertise
- Board-certified in Family Medicine
- Specializes in Geriatric Medicine, Hospice & Palliative Medicine, and Family Medicine
- Graduated from University of Missouri / Columbia Campus in 2002
Patient Ratings
- 5.0-star rating based on 4 reviews
- Contact: (573) 884-7733
Dr. Beth Sjoblom
Specializations
- Board-certified in Internal Medicine
- Focuses on Geriatric Medicine, Hospice & Palliative Medicine, and Internal Medicine
- Graduated from University of Missouri / Columbia Campus in 2002
Patient Reviews
- 4.2-star rating based on 13 reviews
- Contact: (573) 814-6000
Additional Resources and Tips for Finding the Right Geriatrician in Columbia
Utilizing Online Resources
Healthgrades Website
- Detailed profiles of geriatricians
- Patient reviews and ratings
- Educational background and certifications
Local Healthcare Network Websites
- University of Missouri Health Care
- Boone Hospital Center
Considering Language and Communication
Multilingual Doctors
- Dr. Manuel San (English, Chinese, Spanish)
- Dr. Raman Puri (English, Hindi)
Importance of Clear Communication
- Discussing complex health issues
- Explaining treatment plans to patients and families
Evaluating Specializations and Certifications
Board Certifications
- American Board of Family Medicine
- American Board of Internal Medicine
- American Osteopathic Board of Family Physicians
Additional Specialties
- Hospice & Palliative Medicine
- Critical Care Medicine
- Hospital Medicine