Best Geriatric Doctors in Sugar Land

Introduction to Geriatric Medicine in Sugar Land

Definition and scope of geriatric medicine

Geriatric medicine is a specialized field of healthcare dedicated to the unique needs of older adults. In Sugar Land, Texas, this medical specialty plays a significant role in addressing the health concerns of the aging population.

Geriatricians are trained to manage complex health conditions that often accompany aging, such as multiple chronic diseases, cognitive decline, and functional limitations. Their primary goal is to optimize the health and well-being of older adults, focusing on maintaining independence and quality of life.

Importance of choosing the right geriatric doctor

Selecting an appropriate geriatric doctor is a key decision that can significantly influence an older adult's overall health and well-being. The right physician can provide comprehensive care tailored to the individual's specific needs and preferences.

Geriatricians excel in coordinating care for patients with multiple health issues, which is common among older adults. They work closely with other specialists and healthcare providers to ensure a holistic approach to patient care, addressing not only medical concerns but also social and emotional factors that affect health outcomes.

Overview of Selecting a Geriatric Doctor in Sugar Land

Factors to consider when choosing a geriatrician

Board certifications and qualifications

• Review certifications from American Board of Internal Medicine and American Board of Family Medicine
• Consider doctors with specific geriatric medicine certifications

Patient ratings and reviews

• Examine star ratings and number of reviews on Healthgrades
• Look for consistently high-rated doctors like Dr. Ujjwala Murtineni and Dr. Edith Akintokunbo

Gender preferences

• Consider personal comfort with male or female doctors
• Note that Sugar Land offers a mix of male and female geriatricians

Languages spoken

• Ensure effective communication by choosing a doctor who speaks your preferred language
• Most listed doctors speak English, but additional language capabilities may be available

Resources for finding geriatric doctors in Sugar Land

Online platforms

• Utilize Healthgrades website for comprehensive doctor information
• Check other reputable healthcare review websites for additional insights

Local medical associations

• Contact Texas Medical Association for recommendations
• Reach out to local hospitals for referrals to affiliated geriatricians

Insurance provider networks

• Consult with your insurance company for in-network geriatric specialists
• Verify coverage before scheduling appointments

Top-Ranked Geriatric Doctors in Sugar Land

Dr. Ujjwala Murtineni

Qualifications and Rating

• 5.0-star rating with 4 reviews
• Board-certified by American Board of Internal Medicine
• Specializes in Geriatric Medicine

Contact Information

• Phone: (713) 960-8008
• Gender: Female
• Languages: English

Dr. Edith Akintokunbo

Qualifications and Rating

• 5.0-star rating with 3 reviews
• Board-certified by American Board of Family Medicine
• Specializes in Geriatric Medicine

Contact Information

• Phone: (713) 714-6488
• Gender: Female
• Languages: English

Dr. Joel Kneitz

Qualifications and Rating

• 4.7-star rating with 19 reviews
• Board-certified by American Board of Internal Medicine
• Specializes in Geriatric Medicine

Contact Information

• Phone: (713) 797-9999
• Gender: Male
• Languages: English

Dr. Emmanuel Opara

Qualifications and Rating

• 4.6-star rating with 18 reviews
• Board-certified by American Board of Internal Medicine
• Specializes in Geriatric Medicine

Contact Information

• Gender: Male
• Languages: English

Dr. Ranganath Kandala

Qualifications and Rating

• 4.6-star rating with 16 reviews
• Board-certified by American Board of Internal Medicine
• Specializes in Geriatric Medicine

Contact Information

• Phone: (281) 240-0311
• Gender: Male
• Languages: English

Additional Considerations for Choosing a Geriatric Doctor in Sugar Land

Personal Compatibility

Communication Style

• Assess the doctor's ability to explain complex medical issues clearly
• Consider language preferences (e.g., many doctors in Sugar Land speak English)

Approach to Geriatric Care

• Evaluate the doctor's philosophy on aging and quality of life
• Understand their approach to managing multiple health conditions

Practical Considerations

Office Location and Accessibility

• Consider proximity to your residence in Sugar Land
• Evaluate parking and public transportation options

Appointment Availability

• Inquire about wait times for new patient appointments
• Ask about policies for urgent care needs

Insurance and Payment Options

• Verify if the doctor accepts your insurance plan
• Inquire about out-of-pocket costs and payment plans

Additional Resources

Online Profiles

• Review detailed profiles on Healthgrades (e.g., Dr. Joel Kneitz's profile at https://www.healthgrades.com/physician/dr-joel-kneitz-3jl94)
• Check for patient reviews and ratings (e.g., Dr. Alice Ajim has 41 reviews)

Professional Certifications

• Look for board certifications in Geriatric Medicine
• Note that many top-rated doctors in Sugar Land are certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine or Family Medicine