Best Podiatrists in Knoxville

Introduction to Podiatry in Knoxville

Definition of Podiatry

Podiatry is a medical specialty focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders of the foot, ankle, and lower extremity. In Knoxville, podiatrists play a significant role in maintaining the foot health of the local population.

Podiatrists in Knoxville treat a wide range of conditions, including but not limited to plantar fasciitis, bunions, ingrown toenails, diabetic foot care, and sports-related injuries.

Importance of Choosing the Right Podiatrist

Selecting an appropriate podiatrist is essential for ensuring optimal foot health and, by extension, overall well-being. The right podiatrist can provide personalized care tailored to your specific needs and concerns.

Specialized care for foot-related issues is particularly important as it can prevent minor problems from escalating into more serious conditions that may affect mobility and quality of life.

Overview of Podiatry Services in Knoxville

Knoxville boasts a diverse array of qualified podiatry professionals. Based on the provided data, there are at least 14 podiatrists practicing in the area, offering patients a variety of options to choose from.

These podiatrists offer a comprehensive range of treatments, including podiatric surgery, foot and ankle surgery, and sports medicine. Many are affiliated with reputable medical centers such as the University of Tennessee Medical Center and Parkwest Medical Center, ensuring access to advanced medical facilities and technologies.

Selecting a Podiatrist in Knoxville

Factors to Consider

Qualifications and Education

• Review educational background (e.g., Dr. Robert Hancock from University of Connecticut Health Center)
• Check for specialized training in podiatric surgery or sports medicine

Experience and Specializations

• Consider years of practice and areas of expertise
• Look for podiatrists with relevant specializations (e.g., Dr. Dagon Percer in podiatric surgery and sports medicine)

Patient Reviews and Ratings

• Examine star ratings and number of reviews (e.g., Dr. Robert Hancock with 5.0 stars from 15 reviews)
• Read patient feedback for insights into doctor-patient relationships

Hospital Affiliations

• Consider doctors affiliated with reputable hospitals (e.g., University of Tennessee Medical Center)
• Evaluate the importance of hospital access for your needs

Resources for Finding Podiatrists

Online Directories and Review Sites

• Utilize platforms like Healthgrades for comprehensive doctor information
• Compare multiple sources for a well-rounded view

Referrals from Primary Care Physicians

• Seek recommendations from your regular doctor
• Discuss your specific podiatric needs for targeted referrals

Local Medical Associations

• Contact Knoxville or Tennessee podiatric associations
• Request lists of certified podiatrists in the area

Top-Rated Podiatrists in Knoxville

Dr. Robert Hancock

Overview

• Highest-rated podiatrist with 15 five-star reviews
• Practices general podiatry
• Contact: (865) 999-5898

Qualifications

• Education: University of Connecticut Health Center (1997)
• Affiliated with University of Tennessee Medical Center

Dr. Kendale Ritchey

Overview

• Highly rated with 4.7 stars from 29 reviews
• Specializes in general podiatry
• Contact: (865) 999-5898

Qualifications

• Education: University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (1996)
• Affiliated with University of Tennessee Medical Center

Dr. Bradley Gipson

Overview

• Perfect 5-star rating (based on 2 reviews)
• Specializes in podiatry and podiatric surgery
• Contact: (865) 524-1234

Qualifications

• Education: Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine (2006)
• Affiliated with University of Tennessee Medical Center

Dr. Dagon Percer

Overview

• Rated 4.4 stars based on 20 reviews
• Specializes in podiatric surgery and sports medicine
• Contact: (865) 671-2760

Qualifications

• Offers comprehensive podiatric care
• Affiliated with Parkwest Medical Center

Dr. Ivan Cooper

Overview

• Rated 4.1 stars based on 25 reviews
• Practices general podiatry
• Contact: (865) 632-5700

Qualifications

• Experienced podiatrist
• Affiliated with University of Tennessee Medical Center

Additional Considerations for Choosing a Podiatrist in Knoxville

Insurance Coverage and Accepted Plans

Verifying Insurance Acceptance

• Contact podiatrist offices to confirm accepted insurance plans
• Check with insurance provider for in-network podiatrists in Knoxville

Understanding Out-of-Pocket Costs

• Inquire about co-pays and deductibles
• Discuss potential treatment costs and payment options

Location and Accessibility

Proximity to Home or Work

• Consider travel time to podiatrist offices
• Evaluate parking options and public transportation access

Office Hours and Appointment Availability

• Check for extended hours or weekend appointments
• Inquire about wait times for new patient appointments

Communication and Patient Care

Clear Communication

• Assess podiatrist's ability to explain conditions and treatments
• Look for multilingual services if needed (e.g., Dr. Bradley Gipson, Dr. Robert Hancock speak English)

Patient-Centered Approach

• Read patient reviews for insights on bedside manner
• Consider gender preferences (e.g., Dr. Brittany Miller, Dr. Margaret Lubert for female podiatrists)

Specializations and Services

Range of Podiatric Services

• Identify podiatrists offering specific treatments (e.g., Dr. Dagon Percer for sports medicine)
• Consider those with multiple specializations (e.g., Dr. Bradley Gipson for podiatric surgery)

Technology and Facilities

• Inquire about modern diagnostic tools and treatment technologies
• Consider podiatrists with hospital affiliations for comprehensive care