Best Geriatric Doctors in Fayetteville

Introduction to Geriatric Medicine in Fayetteville

Definition and Scope of Geriatric Medicine

Geriatric medicine is a specialized field of healthcare that focuses on the unique needs of older adults. As we age, our bodies undergo various changes that can affect our health and well-being. Geriatricians are medical professionals who have expertise in managing these age-related health issues and providing comprehensive care to seniors.

Specialized care for older adults is essential because it addresses the complex interplay of physical, cognitive, and social factors that influence health in later life. Geriatricians are trained to manage multiple chronic conditions, medication interactions, and age-related syndromes that are common in older patients.

Overview of Geriatric Care in Fayetteville

Fayetteville, North Carolina, offers a range of geriatric care options for its senior population. The city is home to several qualified geriatricians who practice at reputable healthcare facilities such as Cape Fear Valley Medical Center. These specialists provide comprehensive care tailored to the needs of older adults in the community.

Selecting the right geriatric specialist is a key decision that can significantly impact the quality of care an older adult receives. A well-matched geriatrician can provide personalized attention, effectively manage multiple health conditions, and help maintain or improve an individual's quality of life as they age. In Fayetteville, patients have access to geriatricians with diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise, allowing them to find a provider who best suits their specific health needs and preferences.

Navigating the Doctor Selection Process in Fayetteville

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Geriatrician

Credentials and Board Certifications

• Review the doctor's medical education background
• Check for board certifications in Geriatric Medicine and related fields

Experience and Specializations

• Look for doctors with multiple relevant specialties (e.g., Family Medicine, Internal Medicine)
• Consider the breadth of experience in treating geriatric patients

Hospital Affiliations

• Note the importance of affiliation with reputable local hospitals like Cape Fear Valley Medical Center
• Consider the convenience of the hospital location for potential inpatient care

Patient Reviews and Ratings

• Examine star ratings from reliable sources like Healthgrades
• Take into account the number of reviews when assessing overall ratings

Resources for Finding Geriatric Specialists in Fayetteville

Online Physician Directories

• Utilize platforms like Healthgrades for comprehensive doctor information
• Compare multiple sources to gather a well-rounded view of available specialists

Local Medical Associations

• Contact Fayetteville medical associations for recommendations
• Inquire about geriatric care programs at local hospitals

Senior Care Organizations

• Reach out to senior centers or retirement communities for referrals
• Consult with local aging services agencies for guidance

Top-Ranked Geriatric Specialists in Fayetteville

Dr. Muhammad Zafar

Overview

• Specialties: Geriatric Medicine, Family Medicine
• Board Certification: American Board of Family Medicine
• Education: Universidad Autinoma de Bucaramanga / Facultad de Medicina (2003)
• Hospital Affiliation: Cape Fear Valley Medical Center

Patient Feedback

• Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars
• Number of reviews: 1
• Note: Limited review data available

Dr. Raymond Gaskins Jr

Overview

• Specialties: Geriatric Medicine, Sleep Medicine, Family Medicine
• Board Certification: American Board of Family Medicine
• Education: University of North Carolina at Charlotte (1975)
• Hospital Affiliation: Cape Fear Valley Medical Center

Patient Feedback

• Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
• Number of reviews: 7
• Note: Positive patient feedback with a moderate number of reviews

Dr. Sanjiv Dalvi

Overview

• Specialties: Internal Medicine, Geriatric Medicine, and multiple other fields
• Board Certification: American Board of Internal Medicine
• Education: University of Bombay / Grant Medical College (1985), with additional training in the US
• Hospital Affiliation: Cape Fear Valley Medical Center
• Languages: English, Hindi, Marathi, Spanish

Patient Feedback

• Rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars
• Number of reviews: 40
• Note: Substantial number of reviews indicating consistent patient satisfaction

Additional Considerations for Choosing a Geriatrician in Fayetteville

Importance of Communication and Comfort

Selecting a doctor with whom you can communicate effectively

• Consider language preferences
• Assess the doctor's communication style during initial consultation

Evaluating the doctor's approach to geriatric care

• Look for patient-centered care philosophy
• Assess willingness to involve family members in care decisions

Comprehensive Care Approach

Benefits of choosing a physician with diverse medical background

• Example: Dr. Sanjiv Dalvi's extensive specialties
• Importance of addressing multiple health concerns in elderly patients

Considering hospital affiliations

• Note that all listed doctors are affiliated with Cape Fear Valley Medical Center
• Implications for continuity of care and emergency situations