Best Infectious Disease Doctors in Visalia

Introduction to Infectious Diseases and Their Impact in Visalia

Overview of Infectious Diseases

Infectious diseases are disorders caused by organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites. These diseases can be passed from person to person or transmitted by insects or other animals.

In Visalia, like many other parts of California, residents may encounter various infectious diseases including influenza, pneumonia, tuberculosis, and vector-borne diseases such as West Nile virus.

Importance of Specialized Care

Infectious disease specialists play a key role in diagnosing and treating complex infections. They have extensive knowledge of microbiology, epidemiology, and the latest treatment options.

Consulting an infectious disease expert can lead to more accurate diagnoses, targeted treatments, and improved patient outcomes, especially for complex or resistant infections.

Navigating the Doctor Selection Process in Visalia

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Infectious Disease Specialist

Qualifications and Board Certifications

• Review the doctor's educational background
• Check for relevant board certifications (e.g., American Board of Internal Medicine, American Board of Pediatrics)

Experience and Areas of Expertise

• Consider the doctor's years of practice in infectious diseases
• Look for specializations within infectious diseases (e.g., pediatric infectious diseases)

Patient Reviews and Ratings

• Examine overall star ratings on platforms like Healthgrades
• Read individual patient reviews to gauge satisfaction and experiences

Language and Communication

• Consider doctors who speak languages you're comfortable with
• Assess the importance of multilingual capabilities (e.g., English, Tagalog, Hindi)

Resources for Finding Infectious Disease Doctors in Visalia

Online Platforms

• Utilize Healthgrades for comprehensive doctor profiles
• Explore other medical review websites for additional information

Local Medical Community

• Seek referrals from primary care physicians or other specialists
• Contact local hospitals for infectious disease department recommendations

Professional Associations

• Check the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) for member listings
• Consult the California Medical Association for local specialist directories

Top-Ranked Infectious Disease Specialists in Visalia

Dr. Franco Felizarta

Background and Qualifications

• Board certified in Internal Medicine
• Education: SUNY Health Science Center, University of the Philippines Manila

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 3.7-star rating based on 17 reviews

Languages Spoken

• English
• Tagalog

Contact Information

• Phone: (661) 324-3128

Dr. Daniel Boken

Background and Qualifications

• Board certified in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics
• Education: Creighton University (Medical School, 1987)

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• 3.3-star rating based on 4 reviews

Languages Spoken

• English

Contact Information

• Phone: (559) 624-2000

Dr. Carlos Guerra Sanchez

Background and Qualifications

• Board certified in Pediatrics
• Specializes in Pediatric Infectious Diseases

Languages Spoken

• English

Contact Information

• Phone: (559) 741-4599

Dr. Purva Gumaste

Background and Qualifications

• Board certified in Internal Medicine

Languages Spoken

• English
• Hindi

Contact Information

• Phone: (559) 738-2532

Additional Tips for Choosing the Right Infectious Disease Specialist in Visalia

Preparing for Your Appointment

Questions to Ask During the Consultation

• Inquire about the doctor's experience with specific infectious diseases prevalent in Visalia
• Ask about their approach to treatment and management of infectious diseases
• Discuss the doctor's availability for follow-up care and emergencies

Medical History and Documentation to Bring

• Compile a list of current medications and allergies
• Gather recent lab results or imaging studies related to your condition
• Prepare a summary of your symptoms and their timeline

Understanding Insurance and Coverage

Verifying In-Network Providers

• Contact your insurance provider to confirm coverage for the selected doctors
• Inquire about any out-of-pocket costs or copayments
• Check if any of the listed doctors (Dr. Felizarta, Dr. Boken, Dr. Guerra Sanchez, or Dr. Gumaste) are in your network

Discussing Treatment Costs and Payment Options

• Ask the doctor's office about estimated costs for common treatments
• Inquire about payment plans or financial assistance programs if needed
• Discuss potential long-term costs associated with managing infectious diseases

Seeking Second Opinions

When to Consider Getting a Second Opinion

• If you're unsure about a diagnosis or treatment plan
• When dealing with a rare or complex infectious disease
• If you're not comfortable with the communication style of your current doctor

How to Approach the Process Respectfully

• Inform your current doctor about your decision to seek a second opinion
• Request medical records to be shared with the second doctor
• Consider consulting another specialist from the provided list in Visalia