Best Otolaryngologists in Salem

Introduction to Otolaryngology in Salem, Oregon

Definition and scope of Otolaryngology

Otolaryngology, commonly known as Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) medicine, is a specialized field of medicine that focuses on diagnosing and treating disorders of the head and neck region.

ENT specialists in Salem, Oregon, are trained to address a wide range of conditions, including hearing loss, sinusitis, throat infections, and more complex issues such as head and neck cancers.

Importance of choosing the right ENT doctor

Selecting an appropriate ENT specialist is a significant decision that can greatly influence the quality of care you receive. The right doctor can provide accurate diagnoses, effective treatments, and improved health outcomes.

In Salem, patients have access to several highly qualified ENT specialists. Establishing a strong doctor-patient relationship with your chosen ENT professional is essential for comprehensive and personalized care.

Overview of the Doctor Selection Process in Salem

Factors to consider when choosing an ENT specialist

Board certification

• All listed doctors are certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
• Importance of board certification in ensuring quality care

Experience and education

• Varied educational backgrounds, including prestigious institutions
• Consideration of fellowship training and specializations

Patient reviews and ratings

• Analysis of star ratings provided by Healthgrades
• Importance of considering the number of reviews along with the rating

Hospital affiliations

• Most doctors affiliated with Salem Hospital
• Some doctors have multiple hospital affiliations

Resources for finding ENT doctors in Salem

Healthgrades website

• Comprehensive profiles with ratings, education, and certifications
• Direct links to doctor profiles for more information

Local hospital referrals

• Contacting Salem Hospital for recommendations
• Exploring other affiliated hospitals in the area

Insurance provider networks

• Checking with insurance companies for in-network ENT specialists
• Considering coverage options when selecting a doctor

Top-Ranked Otolaryngologists in Salem

Dr. Bruce Johnson

Highest-Rated ENT Specialist

• Perfect 5.0 star rating based on 6 patient reviews
• Board-certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
• Extensive educational background including residency at Oregon Health Science University

Practice Information

• Affiliated with Salem Hospital
• Contact number: (503) 581-1567
• Male physician fluent in English

Dr. Clark Thompson

Highly Rated ENT Doctor

• Impressive 4.6 star rating based on 9 patient reviews
• Board-certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
• Medical education from R J & Lucille Carver College of Medicine University of Iowa

Practice Details

• Affiliated with Salem Hospital
• Contact number: (503) 581-1567
• Male physician fluent in English

Dr. Douglas Skarada

Experienced ENT with Multiple Specializations

• Strong 4.5 star rating based on 136 patient reviews
• Board-certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
• Extensive education including fellowships in Rhinology and Otolaryngic Allergy

Additional Expertise

• Specializes in Rhinology, Sleep Medicine Otolaryngology, and Otolaryngic Allergy
• Affiliated with Legacy Silverton Medical Center and Salem Hospital
• Contact number: (503) 584-1174

Additional Notable ENT Specialists

Dr. Eric Waterman

• 3.6 star rating based on 29 reviews
• Specializes in ENT and Cosmetic, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
• Board-certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology

Dr. Gary Nishioka

• 3.6 star rating based on 14 reviews
• Expertise in ENT, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, and Cosmetic, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
• Affiliated with Salem Hospital

Dr. John Donovan

• 3.3 star rating based on 41 reviews
• Board-certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
• Affiliated with Salem Hospital

Additional Resources for Finding the Right ENT Doctor

Tips for evaluating doctor profiles

Interpreting star ratings and review counts

• Explain the significance of star ratings (e.g., Dr. Bruce Johnson's 5.0 rating)
• Discuss the importance of review counts (e.g., Dr. Douglas Skarada's 136 reviews vs. Dr. Bruce Johnson's 6)

Assessing education and certifications

• Highlight the importance of board certifications (all listed doctors are certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology)
• Discuss the relevance of educational background (e.g., Dr. Skarada's extensive training)

Preparing for your ENT appointment

Questions to ask potential doctors

• Suggest inquiries about experience with specific ENT conditions
• Recommend asking about treatment approaches and technologies used

Information to bring to your first visit

• List of current medications and allergies
• Previous medical records related to ENT issues

Understanding insurance and accessibility

Checking insurance coverage for ENT services

• Advise contacting insurance providers to verify coverage
• Mention the importance of understanding copays and deductibles for specialist visits

Considering location and availability of doctors

• Note the hospital affiliations of Salem ENT doctors (e.g., Salem Hospital, Legacy Silverton Medical Center)
• Discuss the convenience of choosing a doctor with multiple hospital affiliations like Dr. Joseph Allan