Best Hepatologists in Baltimore

Introduction to Hepatology in Baltimore

Overview of Hepatology

Hepatology is a branch of medicine that focuses on the study, prevention, diagnosis, and management of diseases that affect the liver, gallbladder, biliary tree, and pancreas.

Hepatologists treat conditions such as viral hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, and liver cancer.

Importance of Hepatology in Modern Healthcare

With the increasing incidence of liver diseases due to factors like obesity, alcohol consumption, and viral infections, hepatology plays a significant role in public health.

Recent advancements in hepatology have led to improved diagnostic techniques and more effective treatments, including new antiviral therapies and innovative liver transplantation procedures.

Hepatology in Baltimore's Medical Landscape

Baltimore is home to several renowned medical institutions that offer specialized hepatology services, reflecting the city's commitment to advanced liver care.

Institutions such as Johns Hopkins Hospital and the University of Maryland Medical Center are at the forefront of hepatology research and treatment in the area.

Choosing a Hepatologist in Baltimore

Understanding Hepatology and Its Importance

Definition of Hepatology

• Hepatology is a branch of medicine focused on the liver, gallbladder, biliary tree, and pancreas

Common liver conditions treated by hepatologists

• Hepatitis
• Cirrhosis
• Liver cancer
• Fatty liver disease

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Hepatologist

Qualifications and Certifications

• Board certification in Internal Medicine and Hepatology
• Specialized training and fellowships

Experience and Expertise

• Years of practice
• Specializations within hepatology

Patient Reviews and Ratings

• Star ratings and number of reviews
• Patient testimonials

Hospital Affiliations

• Quality of affiliated hospitals
• Access to advanced treatment facilities

Overview of the Hepatologist Selection Process in Baltimore

Researching potential providers

• Utilizing online resources and databases
• Checking professional credentials

Consulting with primary care physicians

• Getting referrals
• Discussing your specific liver health needs

Scheduling initial consultations

• Preparing questions for the hepatologist
• Assessing communication style and patient comfort

Top-Ranked Hepatologists in Baltimore

Dr. Jacqueline Laurin

Qualifications and Experience

• Specializes in Transplant Hepatology, Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, and Hepatology
• Completed fellowship at Mayo Clinic Rochester
• Graduate of University of Florida College of Medicine

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 5.0-star rating based on 7 patient reviews
• Board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine

Contact Information

• Phone: (202) 660-5555
• Affiliated with Sibley Memorial Hospital, Beebe Medical Center, and Frederick Health Hospital

Dr. Babak Torabi Sagvand

Qualifications and Experience

• Specializes in Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, and Hepatology
• Completed fellowship at University of Maryland School of Medicine
• Graduate of Harvard Medical School-Massachusetts General Hospital

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 5.0-star rating based on 4 patient reviews
• Board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine

Contact Information

• Phone: (301) 295-6172
• Affiliated with Adventist Healthcare Shady Grove Medical Center

Dr. Sasan Sakiani

Qualifications and Experience

• Specializes in Transplant Hepatology, Gastroenterology, and Hepatology
• Graduate of Ross University School of Medicine

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 4.4-star rating based on 7 patient reviews
• Board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine

Contact Information

• Phone: (410) 328-1358
• Affiliated with University of Maryland Medical Center and other hospitals

Additional Resources for Finding Hepatologists in Baltimore

Professional Organizations and Directories

American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD)

• Provides a directory of hepatologists
• Offers educational resources on liver diseases

Maryland Board of Physicians

• Verify credentials and licenses of hepatologists
• Access disciplinary records if any

Online Platforms and Healthcare Provider Databases

Healthgrades

• Used as the primary source for doctor information in this article
• Provides detailed profiles, including education, certifications, and patient reviews

Other Reputable Websites

• WebMD
• Vitals
• RateMDs

Local Healthcare Networks

University of Maryland Medical System

• Affiliated with Dr. Sasan Sakiani
• May provide referrals to specialists

Johns Hopkins Medicine

• Known for excellence in gastroenterology and hepatology
• Can be a valuable resource for finding specialists

Tips for Evaluating Hepatologists

Consider Board Certifications

• All listed doctors are certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
• Look for additional certifications in Gastroenterology or Transplant Hepatology

Evaluate Experience and Education

• Review the educational background provided in doctor profiles
• Consider fellowship training in hepatology

Assess Patient Reviews

• Look at both star ratings and number of reviews
• Read individual patient testimonials when available