Best Hepatologists in Pittsburgh

Introduction to Hepatology in Pittsburgh

Definition and scope of hepatology

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

The liver plays a central role in numerous bodily functions, including detoxification, protein synthesis, and the production of biochemicals necessary for digestion.

Maintaining liver health is essential for overall well-being and quality of life.

Overview of hepatology services in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh offers a range of specialized hepatology services, with several highly qualified professionals practicing in the area.

The city is home to prestigious medical institutions such as the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC), which is known for its advanced liver care and research programs.

Patients in Pittsburgh have access to comprehensive liver care, including diagnostic services, treatment options, and ongoing management of liver conditions.

Choosing a Hepatologist in Pittsburgh

Factors to consider when selecting a liver specialist

Board certifications and qualifications

• American Board of Internal Medicine certification
• Specialized training in hepatology

Experience and areas of expertise

• Years of practice in hepatology
• Subspecialties within liver care

Patient reviews and ratings

• Star ratings from healthcare platforms
• Number of patient reviews

Hospital affiliations

• Connections with reputable medical institutions in Pittsburgh
• Access to advanced medical facilities

Resources for finding hepatologists in Pittsburgh

Online directories and review platforms

• Healthgrades and similar websites
• Comprehensive doctor profiles and patient feedback

Referrals from primary care physicians

• Leveraging existing medical relationships
• Personalized recommendations based on patient history

Local medical associations and support groups

• Pittsburgh medical community resources
• Liver disease support organizations

Top-Ranked Hepatologists in Pittsburgh

Dr. Zahida Khan

Specialties and Expertise

• Board-certified in Pediatrics
• Expertise in Transplant Hepatology, Pediatric Gastroenterology, and Hepatology
• Focuses on pediatric liver care

Education and Training

• MD/PhD from University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
• Fellowship in Advanced Pediatric Transplant Hepatology at Baylor College of Medicine
• Additional fellowship in Pediatric Gastroenterology at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh

Patient Satisfaction

• Perfect 5.0-star rating on Healthgrades
• Multilingual: Fluent in English and Pashto

Practice Information

• Contact number: (412) 692-5412
• Associated with multiple hospitals including Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital

Dr. Charles Gabbert

Specialties and Expertise

• Board-certified in Internal Medicine
• Specializes in Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Education and Training

• Medical degree from Oregon Health & Science University
• Residency at University of California San Diego Medical Center
• Fellowship at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC)

Patient Satisfaction

• High 4.6-star rating on Healthgrades based on 10 reviews
• Bilingual: Fluent in English and Spanish

Practice Information

• Contact number: (412) 784-1110
• Affiliated with UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC St. Margaret

Dr. Michael Pezzone

Specialties and Expertise

• Board-certified in Internal Medicine
• Specializes in Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Education and Training

• Medical degree from University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
• Fellowship at University of Pittsburgh - Presbyterian Shadyside

Patient Satisfaction

• 3.2-star rating on Healthgrades based on 11 reviews

Practice Information

• Contact number: (412) 232-8888
• Affiliated with UPMC Mercy

Additional Considerations for Choosing a Hepatologist

Language and communication

Availability of multilingual doctors

• Dr. Khan speaks English and Pashto
• Dr. Gabbert speaks English and Spanish

Importance of clear communication in medical care

• Discuss complex liver conditions effectively
• Ensure patient understanding of treatment plans

Subspecialties within hepatology

Pediatric hepatology

• Dr. Khan's expertise in pediatric gastroenterology and transplant hepatology
• Specialized care for children with liver diseases

Transplant hepatology

• Dr. Khan's specialization in transplant hepatology
• Important for patients considering or undergoing liver transplants

Accessibility and location

Hospital affiliations

• Dr. Gabbert: UPMC Presbyterian and UPMC St. Margaret
• Dr. Pezzone: UPMC Mercy
• Consider proximity to your residence or workplace

Appointment availability

• Check waiting times for new patient appointments
• Inquire about telemedicine options if available