Best Geriatric Doctors in Knoxville

Introduction to Geriatric Medicine in Knoxville

Definition and scope of geriatric medicine

Geriatric medicine is a specialized field of healthcare dedicated to the unique needs of older adults. It encompasses a comprehensive approach to managing the complex health issues that often arise with advancing age.

Geriatricians are trained to address multiple chronic conditions, cognitive changes, and the overall quality of life for seniors. They focus on maintaining independence and functionality while providing compassionate care.

Importance of geriatric care for Knoxville's aging population

Knoxville, like many cities across the United States, is experiencing a demographic shift towards an aging population. This trend underscores the growing need for specialized geriatric care in the area.

Specialized geriatric care offers numerous benefits for Knoxville's seniors, including personalized treatment plans, a focus on preventive care, and expertise in managing age-related health conditions. This tailored approach can lead to improved health outcomes and a better quality of life for older adults in the community.

Navigating the Doctor Selection Process in Knoxville

Factors to consider when choosing a geriatrician

Board certifications and qualifications

• Review American Board certifications
• Consider additional specialties like Internal or Family Medicine

Hospital affiliations

• Examine connections with local hospitals
• Consider proximity to patient's residence

Patient ratings and reviews

• Analyze star ratings and review counts
• Read patient feedback for insights

Resources for finding geriatric specialists in Knoxville

Online platforms and directories

• Utilize Healthgrades for comprehensive doctor profiles
• Explore other medical review websites

Local healthcare networks

• Contact University of Tennessee Medical Center
• Inquire with Tennova Healthcare system

Community resources

• Consult Knoxville-Knox County Office on Aging
• Reach out to local senior centers for recommendations

Top-Ranked Geriatric Doctors in Knoxville

Dr. Karen Rhea

Credentials and Specialties

• Board-certified in Internal Medicine
• Specializes in Geriatric Medicine and Internal Medicine
• Graduated from Duke University Medical School in 2018

Patient Satisfaction

• Perfect 5.0 star rating from 6 reviews
• Highly regarded by patients

Hospital Affiliations

• University of Tennessee Medical Center
• Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge
• Tennova Healthcare North Knoxville Medical Center

Dr. Keilah Gonzalez-Bonilla

Expertise

• Board-certified in Family Medicine
• Specializes in Geriatric Medicine and Family Medicine
• Completed fellowship at Florida Hospital in 2007

Patient Feedback

• 5.0 star rating from 2 reviews
• Positive patient experiences

Practice Information

• Affiliated with Parkwest Medical Center
• Contact number: (865) 690-6727

Dr. Steven Masters

Professional Background

• Board-certified in Family Medicine
• Specializes in Family Medicine, Geriatric Medicine, and Gynecology
• Graduated from University of Tennessee College of Medicine in 1983

Patient Ratings

• 4.6 star rating from 24 reviews
• Well-respected by a significant number of patients

Hospital Affiliation

• Tennova Healthcare North Knoxville Medical Center

Dr. Monica Crane

Qualifications

• Board-certified in Family Medicine
• Specializes in Geriatric Medicine
• Completed fellowship at University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine

Patient Satisfaction

• 4.4 star rating from 41 reviews
• Highly rated by a large number of patients

Practice Details

• Affiliated with Parkwest Medical Center

Dr. Cynthia Pearman

Areas of Expertise

• Board-certified in Family Medicine
• Specializes in Hospice & Palliative Medicine, Geriatric Medicine, and Family Medicine
• Graduated from University of Tennessee College of Medicine in 1986

Patient Reviews

• 4.3 star rating from 6 reviews
• Positive feedback from patients

Contact and Affiliation

• Affiliated with University of Tennessee Medical Center
• Contact number: (865) 544-6222

Additional Considerations for Choosing a Geriatrician in Knoxville

Language and Communication

Available Languages

• English is the primary language for all listed doctors
• Importance of clear communication in geriatric care

Communication Style

• Consider doctors' ability to explain complex medical issues
• Importance of patience and empathy in geriatric care

Accessibility and Location

Hospital Affiliations

• University of Tennessee Medical Center
• Parkwest Medical Center
• Tennova Healthcare North Knoxville Medical Center
• Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center

Office Locations

• Consider proximity to patient's residence
• Availability of public transportation or parking

Comprehensive Care Approach

Specializations

• Some doctors have multiple specialties (e.g., Internal Medicine, Family Medicine)
• Dr. Cynthia Pearman specializes in Hospice & Palliative Medicine

Holistic Care

• Look for doctors who consider overall well-being
• Consider doctors with experience in managing multiple chronic conditions