Best Hepatologists in Lakewood

Introduction to Hepatology and Its Significance in Lakewood

Definition and scope of hepatology

Hepatology is a branch of medicine that specializes in the study, prevention, diagnosis, and management of diseases that affect the liver, gallbladder, biliary tree, and pancreas. As a subspecialty of gastroenterology, hepatologists are experts in treating a wide range of liver-related conditions.

Hepatologists commonly treat conditions such as viral hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, liver cancer, and autoimmune liver diseases. They also play a key role in managing patients before and after liver transplantation.

Importance of hepatology in Lakewood

In Lakewood, Colorado, as in many parts of the United States, liver diseases are becoming increasingly prevalent. Factors such as lifestyle changes, obesity rates, and alcohol consumption contribute to the growing need for specialized liver care in the area.

The liver is an essential organ that performs numerous functions critical to overall health, including filtering toxins from the blood, producing bile for digestion, and regulating blood sugar levels. Maintaining liver health is fundamental for overall well-being and quality of life.

Choosing a Hepatologist in Lakewood

Factors to consider when selecting a liver specialist

Board certifications and qualifications

• American Board of Internal Medicine certification
• Fellowship training in Hepatology or Transplant Hepatology

Experience and specializations

• Years of practice in Hepatology
• Additional specialties such as Gastroenterology or Internal Medicine

Patient reviews and ratings

• Star ratings from verified patients
• Number of reviews available

Overview of available hepatologists in Lakewood

Number of specialists in the area

• Limited options with two identified hepatologists
• Consideration of expanding search to nearby areas if needed

General information about local practices

• Hospital affiliations
• Languages spoken (e.g., English)
• Gender diversity in available specialists

Top-Ranked Hepatologists in Lakewood

Dr. Nathan Susnow

Background and Qualifications

• Fellowship in Transplant Hepatology (2011)
• University of Washington Medical Center (Fellowship Hospital, 2010)
• American Board of Internal Medicine certification

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 3.5-star rating from 11 reviews
• Higher-rated option in Lakewood for hepatology

Areas of Expertise

• Gastroenterology
• Internal Medicine
• Hepatology

Dr. Jeffrey Frank

Background and Qualifications

• Mayo Clinic (Rochester) Fellowship (1995)
• University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics Residency (1992)
• Extensive experience in the field

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 2.6-star rating from 20 reviews
• More patient feedback available

Areas of Expertise

• Gastroenterology
• Hepatology

Additional Resources for Finding the Right Hepatologist

Online platforms for doctor reviews and comparisons

Healthgrades and other reputable websites

• Overview of Healthgrades as a primary source in our data
• Explanation of how to use Healthgrades for doctor comparisons

Interpreting online ratings and reviews

• Analysis of star ratings (e.g., Dr. Susnow's 3.5 stars vs Dr. Frank's 2.6 stars)
• Consideration of review volume (11 reviews vs 20 reviews)

Recommendations from primary care physicians

Importance of referrals from trusted healthcare providers

• Discussing the value of professional networks in Lakewood
• How primary care doctors can guide specialty care choices

Questions to ask when seeking a referral

• Inquiring about a hepatologist's experience with specific liver conditions
• Asking about compatibility with your healthcare needs and preferences

Local medical associations and support groups

Colorado Medical Society resources

• Information on accessing the Colorado Medical Society directory
• How to use state medical resources to verify credentials

Liver health support groups in Lakewood

• Benefits of connecting with local patient communities
• How support groups can provide insights on local hepatologists