Best Infectious Disease Doctors in Norfolk

Introduction to Infectious Diseases and Their Management in Norfolk

Overview of Infectious Diseases

Infectious diseases encompass a wide range of illnesses caused by microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. These conditions can vary from common ailments like the flu to more complex diseases that require specialized treatment.

Specialized care for infectious diseases is essential due to the evolving nature of pathogens, the complexity of diagnoses, and the need for targeted treatments. In Norfolk, Virginia, residents have access to several highly qualified infectious disease specialists who can provide expert care for these conditions.

The Role of Infectious Disease Specialists

Infectious disease specialists possess extensive knowledge in identifying and treating a wide array of infections. Their expertise is particularly valuable in diagnosing unusual infections, managing antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and providing care for immunocompromised patients.

These specialists play a significant role in managing complex cases that may not respond to standard treatments. Additionally, they are instrumental in preventing and controlling outbreaks, which is particularly important in a city like Norfolk with its diverse population and naval presence.

Selecting an Infectious Disease Specialist in Norfolk

When selecting an infectious disease specialist in Norfolk, consider factors such as the doctor's education, board certifications, years of experience, and areas of expertise. It's also beneficial to look at their hospital affiliations and whether they are conveniently located.

Credentials, experience, and patient reviews are valuable indicators of a doctor's quality of care. For instance, Dr. James Radike and Dr. Jessica Altamirano, both practicing in Norfolk, have received 5-star ratings from patients, suggesting high levels of patient satisfaction.

Top-Ranked Infectious Disease Specialists in Norfolk

Dr. James Radike

Qualifications and Experience

• Medical degree from University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center (1988)
• Board certified by American Board of Internal Medicine
• Specializes in Infectious Disease Medicine and Internal Medicine

Practice Information

• Hospital affiliations: Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, Chesapeake Regional Medical Center, Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center
• Contact: (757) 354-2885
• Gender: Male

Patient Feedback

• 5.0-star rating based on 4 reviews
• Highly regarded by patients

Dr. Jessica Altamirano

Expertise and Languages

• Specializes in Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease Medicine
• Board certified by American Board of Internal Medicine
• Fluent in English and Spanish

Practice Details

• Hospital affiliation: Jackson South Community Hospital
• Contact: (786) 800-5631
• Gender: Female

Patient Satisfaction

• 5.0-star rating based on 2 reviews
• Well-received by patients

Dr. Douglas Mitchell

Educational Background

• Medical degree from University of Michigan Medical School (1984)
• Fellowship at Eastern Virginia Medical School
• Board certified by American Board of Pediatrics

Specializations

• Expertise in Infectious Disease Medicine and Pediatrics
• Ideal for pediatric infectious disease cases

Practice Information

• Hospital affiliation: Children's Hospital Of The King's Daughters
• Contact: (757) 855-6800
• Gender: Male

Patient Feedback

• 5.0-star rating based on 3 reviews
• Highly regarded in pediatric infectious diseases

Dr. Pravin Deshmukh

Extensive Medical Background

• Multiple fellowships and residencies
• Medical degree from Grant Medical College & Sir J.J. Group Of Hospitals, University Of Bombay (1991)
• Expertise in Internal Medicine, Geriatric Medicine, and Infectious Disease Medicine

Practice Details

• Hospital affiliations: Bon Secours Memorial Regional Medical Center, St. Mary's Hospital
• Contact: (804) 612-2980
• Gender: Male

Patient Satisfaction

• 4.2-star rating based on 16 reviews
• Well-regarded by a significant number of patients

Dr. Laura Armas

Professional Background

• Medical degree from DE LA SALLE UNIVERSITY / COLLEGE OF MEDICINE (1985)
• Residency at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas
• Board certified by American Board of Internal Medicine

Practice Information

• Hospital affiliations: HCA Florida South Tampa Hospital, AdventHealth Orlando
• Contact: (757) 346-5770
• Gender: Female

Patient Feedback

• 2.6-star rating based on 11 reviews
• Mixed patient feedback

Additional Resources for Finding Infectious Disease Specialists in Norfolk

Online Physician Directories

Healthgrades and other reputable platforms

• Overview of Healthgrades as a resource
• Other online directories for doctor reviews and ratings

Effective use of online resources

• Tips for navigating physician profiles
• Understanding rating systems and patient reviews

Local Medical Institutions

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital

• Overview of infectious disease services
• Contact information for specialist referrals

Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters

• Pediatric infectious disease specialists
• Resources for families seeking specialized care

Insurance Considerations

Verifying in-network providers

• Steps to check if a specialist is covered by your insurance
• Importance of confirming coverage before scheduling appointments

Understanding coverage for infectious disease treatments

• Types of services typically covered
• Potential out-of-pocket costs to consider

Tips for Choosing the Right Infectious Disease Specialist in Norfolk

Assessing Communication Style and Bedside Manner

Importance of clear communication

• Review patient feedback on doctor-patient interactions
• Consider language proficiency (e.g., Dr. Jessica Altamirano speaks Spanish)

Evaluating bedside manner through patient reviews

• Analyze star ratings and review counts (e.g., Dr. Pravin Deshmukh has 16 reviews)
• Look for patterns in patient comments about doctor's approach

Considering Location and Accessibility

Proximity to home or work in Norfolk

• Check hospital affiliations (e.g., Sentara Norfolk General Hospital)
• Consider doctors with multiple hospital affiliations for flexibility

Availability of telemedicine options

• Inquire about virtual consultation capabilities
• Assess importance of in-person vs. remote care for your needs

Evaluating Experience with Specific Conditions

Assessing expertise in particular infectious diseases

• Review specializations (e.g., Dr. Douglas Mitchell's focus on pediatric infectious diseases)
• Consider doctors with multiple related specialties (e.g., Dr. Pravin Deshmukh's expertise in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Medicine)

Inquiring about treatment approaches

• Research doctors' educational backgrounds and certifications
• Consider reaching out to doctors' offices for more information on their approach to specific conditions