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Best Otolaryngologists in Santa Maria

Written by Andrew Le, MD

Updated December 24, 2024

Introduction to Otolaryngology in Santa Maria

Definition and Scope of Otolaryngology

Otolaryngology, also known as Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) medicine, is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders related to the head and neck region.

ENT specialists, or otolaryngologists, are trained to manage a wide range of conditions affecting the ears, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck.

Common conditions treated by otolaryngologists include hearing loss, sinusitis, tonsillitis, sleep apnea, and various head and neck cancers.

Importance of Choosing the Right Otolaryngologist

Selecting the right otolaryngologist is an important decision that can significantly impact your overall health and quality of life.

ENT issues can affect essential functions such as hearing, breathing, and swallowing, which are fundamental to daily life and well-being.

Specialized care from a qualified otolaryngologist ensures that you receive expert diagnosis, treatment, and management of complex ENT conditions.

In Santa Maria, residents have access to several board-certified otolaryngologists who offer comprehensive ENT care.


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List of Otolaryngologists in Santa Maria

Dr. Zachary Vandegriend

Dr. Zachary Vandegriend

4.1

Santa Maria, CA

Sex

Male

Languages

English

Phone

(805) 614-9250

American Board of Otolaryngology

American Board of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery

American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

English

Ear, Nose, and Throat

RL

Dr. Raymund Llaurado

3.7

Santa Maria, CA

Sex

Male

Languages

English

Phone

(805) 922-6641

American Board of Otolaryngology

American Board of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery

American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

English

Ear, Nose, and Throat

Dr. Garabed Messrobian

Dr. Garabed Messrobian

3.7

Santa Maria, CA

Sex

Male

Languages

English

Phone

(805) 739-3990

American Board of Otolaryngology

American Board of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery

English

Ear, Nose, and Throat

Dr. Alain Hurdle

Dr. Alain Hurdle

3.0

Santa Maria, CA

Sex

Male

Languages

English

Phone

(805) 474-5807

American Board of Otolaryngology

American Board of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery

English

Ear, Nose, and Throat

Overview of Doctor Selection Process in Santa Maria

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Otolaryngologist

Credentials and Board Certifications

  • Review of American Board of Otolaryngology certifications
  • Importance of subspecialty certifications (e.g., Head and Neck Surgery, Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery)

Patient Reviews and Ratings

  • Analysis of star ratings and number of reviews
  • Interpretation of patient feedback for comprehensive evaluation

Experience and Specializations

  • Consideration of years in practice
  • Relevance of doctor's focus areas to patient needs

Accessibility and Communication

  • Evaluation of languages spoken (e.g., English)
  • Importance of clear communication in ENT care

Resources for Finding Otolaryngologists in Santa Maria

Online Platforms and Directories

  • Utilization of Healthgrades and similar websites
  • Accessing detailed physician profiles and patient reviews

Local Medical Community

  • Seeking referrals from primary care physicians
  • Consulting with local hospitals and medical centers

Insurance Provider Networks

  • Checking in-network otolaryngologists
  • Understanding coverage for specialized ENT services

Top-Ranked Otolaryngologists in Santa Maria

Dr. Zachary Vandegriend

Profile Overview

  • Highest star rating: 4.1 out of 5 stars
  • 14 patient reviews
  • Board certifications in Otolaryngology and Facial Plastic Surgery

Contact Information

  • Phone: (805) 614-9250
  • More details available on Healthgrades profile

Dr. Raymund Llaurado

Profile Overview

  • Most reviewed: 33 patient reviews
  • Star rating: 3.7 out of 5 stars
  • Board certifications in Otolaryngology and Facial Plastic Surgery

Contact Information

  • Phone: (805) 922-6641
  • More details available on Healthgrades profile

Dr. Garabed Messrobian

Profile Overview

  • Star rating: 3.7 out of 5 stars
  • 9 patient reviews
  • Board certification in Otolaryngology

Contact Information

  • Phone: (805) 739-3990
  • More details available on Healthgrades profile

Additional Resources and Tips for Choosing the Right Otolaryngologist in Santa Maria

Utilizing Online Resources

Healthgrades website

  • Accessing detailed profiles of Santa Maria otolaryngologists
  • Reading patient reviews and star ratings

Other medical review platforms

  • Comparing information across multiple sources
  • Identifying consistencies in doctor reputations

Preparing for Your First Appointment

Questions to ask your potential otolaryngologist

  • Inquiring about board certifications and specializations
  • Discussing experience with specific ENT conditions
  • Asking about treatment approaches and technologies used

Documentation to bring

  • Medical history related to ENT issues
  • List of current medications and allergies
  • Previous test results or imaging studies

Understanding Insurance and Payment Options

Verifying insurance coverage

  • Contacting insurance provider to confirm in-network status
  • Understanding co-pays and deductibles for specialist visits

Discussing payment options

  • Inquiring about self-pay rates if uninsured
  • Exploring potential payment plans or financial assistance

Considering Language and Communication

Language preferences

  • Noting that all listed doctors speak English
  • Inquiring about interpreter services if needed

Communication style

  • Assessing doctor-patient interaction during initial consultation
  • Ensuring comfort in discussing sensitive health issues