Best Pulmonologists in Elk Grove

Introduction to Pulmonology in Elk Grove

Definition and scope of pulmonology

Pulmonology is a medical specialty focused on diagnosing and treating diseases and disorders of the respiratory system. This field encompasses a wide range of conditions affecting the lungs, bronchial tubes, and other structures involved in breathing.

Maintaining optimal pulmonary health is essential for overall well-being and quality of life. The respiratory system plays a fundamental role in supplying oxygen to the body and removing carbon dioxide, making it indispensable for all bodily functions.

Overview of pulmonology services in Elk Grove

Elk Grove, California, is home to several qualified pulmonologists who provide specialized care for respiratory conditions. The city offers a range of pulmonology services through various healthcare facilities, including Kaiser Permanente South Sacramento Medical Center.

Local pulmonologists in Elk Grove treat a variety of respiratory issues, including but not limited to asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, lung cancer, and sleep-related breathing disorders. Many specialists in the area also offer critical care medicine, demonstrating their expertise in managing severe respiratory conditions.

Choosing a Pulmonologist in Elk Grove

Factors to consider when selecting a specialist

Board certifications and qualifications

• Review the American Board of Internal Medicine certifications
• Consider specialists with additional certifications in Critical Care Medicine or Sleep Medicine

Hospital affiliations

• Most pulmonologists in Elk Grove are affiliated with Kaiser Permanente South Sacramento Medical Center
• Consider the location and reputation of affiliated hospitals

Patient reviews and ratings

• Examine available star ratings and review counts
• Note that many doctors in the area have limited or no ratings

Resources for finding pulmonologists in Elk Grove

Online directories and review platforms

• Utilize websites like Healthgrades for comprehensive doctor profiles
• Check multiple platforms for a well-rounded view of each doctor

Referrals from primary care physicians

• Consult with your primary care doctor for personalized recommendations
• Discuss your specific respiratory concerns to find the most suitable specialist

Top-Rated Pulmonologists in Elk Grove

Dr. Petey Lao

Background and Qualifications

• Medical education from Chulalongkom University Faculty of Medicine (1996)
• Board certified by American Board of Internal Medicine
• Specializes in Critical Care Medicine and Pulmonary Disease

Practice Information

• Affiliated with Kaiser Permanente South Sacramento Medical Center
• Speaks English
• Male physician

Patient Feedback

• Highest rating of 5.0 stars
• Based on 2 patient reviews

Dr. Gregory Marelich

Background and Qualifications

• Graduated from Saint Louis University Health Sciences Center (1989)
• Board certified by American Board of Internal Medicine
• Expertise in Critical Care Medicine and Pulmonary Disease

Practice Information

• Affiliated with Kaiser Permanente South Sacramento Medical Center
• Offers services in English
• Male physician

Patient Feedback

• Excellent rating of 5.0 stars
• Based on 1 patient review

Other Notable Pulmonologists

Dr. Francis Lam

• Specializes in Critical Care Medicine, Pulmonary Disease, and Internal Medicine
• Educated at University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Medicine (2012)
• Board certified by American Board of Internal Medicine

Dr. Jason Lam

• Focuses on Critical Care Medicine, Pulmonary Disease, and Internal Medicine
• Board certified by American Board of Internal Medicine
• Affiliated with multiple Kaiser Permanente centers

Dr. Joel Tourtellotte

• Expertise in Critical Care Medicine, Pulmonary Disease, and Internal Medicine
• Board certified by American Board of Internal Medicine
• Practices at Kaiser Permanente South Sacramento Medical Center

Additional Considerations for Pulmonology Care in Elk Grove

Subspecialties within pulmonology

Critical care medicine

• Explanation of critical care in pulmonology
• Doctors offering critical care services

Sleep medicine

• Overview of sleep-related respiratory disorders
• Pulmonologists specializing in sleep medicine

Language options for non-English speakers

Multilingual pulmonologists in Elk Grove

• Dr. Yuen Kwan - English and Cantonese
• Importance of clear communication in healthcare

Gender diversity in pulmonology care

Female pulmonologists in Elk Grove

• Dr. Paramjeet Atwal
• Dr. Yuen Kwan
• Dr. Sabrina Chen

Importance of gender representation in healthcare

• Patient comfort and preferences
• Diverse perspectives in medical care