Best Geriatric Doctors in Chesapeake

Introduction to Geriatrics in Chesapeake

Definition of Geriatrics

Geriatrics is a specialized branch of medicine that focuses on the health care of older adults. This field addresses the unique health challenges and complex medical conditions that often come with aging. Geriatric physicians, also known as geriatricians, are trained to provide comprehensive care that aims to improve the quality of life and maintain the independence of older patients.

In Chesapeake, geriatric care plays a significant role in the local healthcare landscape. As the population ages, the demand for specialized geriatric services continues to grow. Geriatricians in Chesapeake are equipped to manage multiple chronic conditions, assess cognitive health, and provide personalized care plans that consider the overall well-being of older adults.

Importance of Geriatric Care in Chesapeake

The importance of geriatric care in Chesapeake cannot be overstated. With a growing aging population, the city has seen an increased need for healthcare professionals who specialize in the care of older adults. Geriatricians in Chesapeake are essential in providing tailored medical attention that addresses the complex interplay of physical, mental, and social factors affecting the health of seniors.

Specialized geriatric care is particularly important in Chesapeake due to the unique health challenges faced by older adults. These may include managing multiple chronic conditions, addressing cognitive changes, preventing falls, and ensuring proper nutrition. Geriatricians in the area are trained to provide comprehensive assessments and develop care plans that take into account these multifaceted needs, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes and improved quality of life for Chesapeake's senior population.

Choosing a Geriatric Doctor in Chesapeake

Factors to Consider

Board Certification

• Verify certification in Geriatric Medicine or related fields
• Example: Dr. Rikitha Menezes - American Board of Internal Medicine certified

Experience and Education

• Review educational background and years of practice
• Example: Dr. Michael Sotosky - Residency at East VA Grad School of Medicine

Hospital Affiliations

• Consider doctors with affiliations to reputable local hospitals
• Example: Many top doctors affiliated with Sentara Norfolk General Hospital

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• Examine star ratings and number of reviews
• Example: Dr. David West - 4.7-star rating with 16 reviews

Language Preferences

• Choose a doctor who speaks your preferred language
• Example: Dr. David West speaks English and Urdu

Resources for Finding Geriatric Doctors

Online Directories

• Utilize websites like Healthgrades.com
• Compare doctors based on provided information and ratings

Local Medical Associations

• Contact Chesapeake Medical Society for recommendations
• Inquire about geriatric specialists in the area

Primary Care Physician Referrals

• Ask your current doctor for geriatric specialist recommendations
• Discuss your specific health needs and preferences

Top-Rated Geriatric Doctors in Chesapeake

Dr. Rikitha Menezes

Overview

• Perfect 5.0-star rating (note: based on only one review)
• Board-certified in Internal Medicine
• Specializes in Geriatric Medicine and Internal Medicine

Qualifications and Affiliations

• Hospital affiliations include Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, Sentara Leigh Hospital, and Sentara Careplex Hospital
• Speaks English
• Contact: (757) 269-9980

Dr. Michael Sotosky

Overview

• High 4.9-star rating with 7 reviews
• Board-certified in Family Medicine
• Expertise in both Family Medicine and Geriatric Medicine

Qualifications and Experience

• Residency at East Va Grad School of Medicine (1986)
• Medical degree from University of Phoenix / Northern California Campus (1983)
• Speaks English

Dr. David West

Overview

• Strong 4.7-star rating with 16 reviews
• Board-certified in Internal Medicine
• Specializes in Geriatric Medicine and Internal Medicine

Qualifications and Affiliations

• Medical degree from University of Phoenix / Northern California Campus (1985)
• Multilingual: speaks English and Urdu
• Hospital affiliations include Sentara Princess Anne Hospital, Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, and Sentara Leigh Hospital
• Contact: (757) 547-9286

Dr. Masoumeh Kiamanesh

Overview

• 4.2-star rating with 5 reviews
• Board-certified in Family Medicine
• Experience in both Family Medicine and Geriatric Medicine

Qualifications and Affiliations

• Medical degree from Gilan University of Medical Sciences / School of Medicine (1999)
• Hospital affiliations include Mayo Clinic Hospital, Saint Marys Campus, Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, and Sentara Leigh Hospital
• Speaks English
• Contact: (507) 284-2511

Dr. Carlos Silva

Overview

• 4.0-star rating with 35 reviews
• Multiple board certifications, including Internal Medicine and Preventive Medicine
• Expertise in Pulmonary Disease, Geriatric Medicine, and Critical Care Medicine

Qualifications and Affiliations

• Fellowship at Catheterization Medical Center|Montefiore MC (1989)
• Internship at The Catholic Medical Center of Brooklyn and Queens (1985)
• Hospital affiliations include Sentara Princess Anne Hospital, Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, and Sentara Leigh Hospital
• Speaks English
• Contact: (757) 889-6677

Additional Considerations for Selecting a Geriatric Doctor in Chesapeake

Specialized Services Offered

Hospice and Palliative Care

• Dr. Nabil Tadros specializes in Hospice & Palliative Medicine
• Importance of end-of-life care options for geriatric patients

Occupational Therapy

• Lisa Cunha-Butkovich offers Occupational Therapy services
• Benefits of occupational therapy in maintaining independence for older adults

Additional Medical Specialties

• Dr. Carlos Silva's expertise in Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Medicine
• Relevance of multidisciplinary approach in geriatric care

Language and Communication

Multilingual Doctors

• Dr. David West speaks English and Urdu
• Dr. Samir Abdelshaheed speaks English and Arabic
• Importance of clear communication in geriatric care

Hospital Affiliations

Local Hospital Networks

• Sentara Healthcare System (Norfolk General, Leigh, Princess Anne)
• Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center
• Significance of hospital affiliations for continuity of care

Patient Reviews and Ratings

Interpreting Star Ratings

• Highest rated: Dr. Rikitha Menezes (5.0 stars, 1 review)
• Most reviewed: Dr. Samir Abdelshaheed (3.6 stars, 50 reviews)
• Balancing rating scores with number of reviews