Best Geriatric Doctors in Lubbock

Introduction to Geriatric Medicine in Lubbock

Definition and Scope of Geriatric Medicine

Geriatric medicine is a specialized field of healthcare focused on the unique needs of older adults. It encompasses a comprehensive approach to managing complex health conditions and maintaining the quality of life for seniors.

Practitioners in this field are trained to address the multifaceted aspects of aging, including physical, mental, and social well-being.

Importance of Geriatric Care in Lubbock

Lubbock, like many cities across the United States, is experiencing a growth in its aging population. This demographic shift underscores the increasing importance of geriatric care in the area.

Specialized geriatric care is essential to address the unique health challenges faced by older adults, including managing multiple chronic conditions, preventing falls, and maintaining cognitive function.

Overview of Geriatric Care Availability in Lubbock

Lubbock is home to several geriatric specialists who are dedicated to providing high-quality care for the elderly population. Based on the data provided, there are at least 9 doctors specializing in geriatric medicine in the area.

Among these specialists, some have received high ratings from patients, including Dr. Shannon Tapia, Dr. Scott Bergfeld, and Dr. Salman Ahmad, all of whom have received 5-star or near 5-star ratings. These top-rated doctors will be discussed in more detail in subsequent sections of this article.

Choosing a Geriatric Doctor in Lubbock

Factors to Consider

Qualifications and Expertise

• Board certifications (e.g., American Board of Family Medicine, American Board of Internal Medicine)
• Specializations in Geriatric Medicine and related fields
• Educational background and ongoing training

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• Star ratings from platforms like Healthgrades
• Number of patient reviews
• Specific feedback on geriatric care

Hospital Affiliations

• Connections with reputable hospitals in Lubbock (e.g., University Medical Center, Covenant Medical Center)
• Access to comprehensive care facilities

Language and Communication

• Availability of multilingual doctors (e.g., English, Spanish)
• Clear communication style with older patients and their families

Resources for Finding Geriatric Doctors

Online Platforms

• Healthgrades and similar healthcare provider directories
• Hospital websites and physician finders

Local Medical Community

• Referrals from primary care physicians
• Recommendations from local senior care organizations

Insurance Provider Networks

• List of in-network geriatric specialists
• Medicare and Medicaid approved providers

Top-Rated Geriatric Doctors in Lubbock

Dr. Shannon Tapia

Qualifications and Ratings

• Perfect 5-star rating on Healthgrades
• Board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine
• Specializes in Geriatric Medicine and Family Medicine

Education and Experience

• Graduated from Loyola University Chicago School of Dentistry in 2010
• Focuses on comprehensive geriatric care

Contact Information

• Phone: (806) 743-2757
• Gender: Female
• Languages: English

Dr. Scott Bergfeld

Qualifications and Ratings

• 5-star rating on Healthgrades
• Board certified by the American Board of Family Medicine
• Specializes in Geriatric Medicine and Family Medicine

Education and Experience

• Graduated from University of Nebraska at Kearney in 1981
• Extensive experience in geriatric care

Hospital Affiliations and Contact

• Affiliated with University Medical Center
• Phone: (806) 743-9098
• Gender: Male
• Languages: English

Dr. Salman Ahmad

Qualifications and Ratings

• 4.6-star rating based on 83 patient reviews
• Specializes in Internal Medicine, Geriatric Medicine, and Home Health Medicine

Education and Experience

• Residency at Texas Tech University Health Science Center
• Graduated from Dow Medical College/Dow University of Health Sciences in 1989

Hospital Affiliations and Languages

• Affiliated with Covenant Medical Center and Covenant Hospital Plainview
• Multilingual: English and Spanish
• Phone: (806) 701-5797

Additional Considerations for Geriatric Care in Lubbock

Importance of Multidisciplinary Approach

Coordination with other specialists

• Geriatric care often involves multiple health conditions
• Highlight doctors with multiple specialties like Dr. Salman Ahmad

Integration of family medicine and geriatric care

• Note doctors certified in both, such as Dr. Jennifer Ward
• Discuss benefits of comprehensive care approach

Accessibility and Location

Proximity to patients' residences

• Mention hospital affiliations of doctors like Dr. Scott Bergfeld
• Discuss the importance of convenient locations for elderly patients

Availability of public transportation or senior transportation services

• Highlight the need for easy access to medical facilities
• Suggest researching local transportation options for seniors

Language and Communication

Multilingual capabilities of doctors

• Highlight multilingual doctors like Dr. Salman Ahmad (English, Spanish)
• Discuss the importance of clear communication in geriatric care

Cultural sensitivity in elderly care

• Mention the diverse backgrounds of Lubbock's geriatric doctors
• Emphasize the importance of cultural understanding in senior care