Best Pulmonologists in Laredo
Updated September 19, 2024
Introduction to Pulmonology in Laredo, Texas
Definition and scope of pulmonology
Pulmonology is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and disorders affecting the respiratory system. This field encompasses a wide range of conditions, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, lung cancer, and sleep-related breathing disorders.
Specialized care in pulmonology is essential for maintaining optimal respiratory health. Pulmonologists are trained to manage complex respiratory conditions and provide comprehensive care to patients with lung-related issues.
Overview of pulmonology services in Laredo
Laredo, Texas, is home to several qualified pulmonologists who offer specialized care for respiratory conditions. Based on the available data, there are at least five pulmonologists practicing in the area, providing residents with access to expert care for their respiratory health needs.
While specific data on common respiratory issues in Laredo is not provided, it's worth noting that the city's location in South Texas may expose residents to factors that can impact respiratory health, such as air quality issues related to its proximity to the US-Mexico border and potential occupational exposures in local industries.
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List of Pulmonologists in Laredo
American Board of Internal Medicine
Scott & White Memorial Hospital (Fellowship Hospital)
Brookdale University Hospital Medical Center (Internship Hospital)
Autonomous University of Guadalajara School of Medicine (Medical School)
English
Spanish
Doctors Hospital of Laredo
Laredo Medical Center
Pulmonary Disease
Geriatric Medicine
Sleep Medicine
Internal Medicine
Choosing a Pulmonologist in Laredo
Key Factors in Selecting a Specialist
Board Certifications and Qualifications
- Review American Board of Internal Medicine certifications
- Consider additional specialties (e.g., Sleep Medicine, Geriatric Medicine)
Hospital Affiliations
- Main affiliations: Doctors Hospital of Laredo and Laredo Medical Center
- Importance of choosing a doctor affiliated with preferred hospitals
Patient Reviews and Ratings
- Analyze star ratings and review counts from Healthgrades
- Consider the overall patient satisfaction trends
Language Preferences
- Availability of Spanish-speaking doctors (e.g., Dr. Carlos Llanes, Dr. Louis Mendoza Jr)
- Importance of clear communication with your physician
Practical Considerations
Insurance Coverage
- Verify if the pulmonologist accepts your insurance plan
- Understand potential out-of-pocket costs
Location and Accessibility
- Consider the doctor's office location in Laredo
- Evaluate the ease of scheduling appointments
Comprehensive Care Approach
- Look for pulmonologists offering multiple related specialties
- Consider doctors who can address sleep disorders or geriatric needs if relevant
Top-Ranked Pulmonologists in Laredo
Dr. Rafael Deliz Velez
Professional Profile
- Highest star rating among Laredo pulmonologists (4.2 out of 5)
- Board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
- Specializes in Pulmonary Disease and Internal Medicine
Education and Experience
- Graduated from University of Puerto Rico / Medical Sciences Campus in 1988
- Over 30 years of experience in the field
Practice Information
- Affiliated with Doctors Hospital of Laredo and Laredo Medical Center
- Contact number: (956) 795-1887
Dr. Carlos Llanes
Professional Profile
- Second-highest star rating (4.0 out of 5)
- Board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
- Specializes in Pulmonary Disease, Geriatric Medicine, Sleep Medicine, and Internal Medicine
Language and Communication
- Bilingual: fluent in English and Spanish
- Enhances ability to serve Laredo's diverse population
Practice Information
- Affiliated with Doctors Hospital of Laredo and Laredo Medical Center
- Contact number: (956) 795-4770
Dr. Benson Huang
Professional Profile
- Third-highest star rating (3.6 out of 5)
- Specializes in Pulmonary Disease
Education and Experience
- Graduated from University of the East / Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center in 1983
- Extensive experience in pulmonology
Practice Information
- Affiliated with Doctors Hospital of Laredo and Laredo Medical Center
- Contact number: (956) 794-8880
Additional Pulmonologists to Consider
Dr. Pradyumna Mummady
- Specializes in Cardiovascular & Pulmonary Diseases, Pulmonary Disease, Sleep Medicine, and Internal Medicine
- Affiliated with Laredo Medical Center
- Contact number: (956) 568-9400
Dr. Louis Mendoza Jr
- Specializes in Pulmonary Disease
- Bilingual: fluent in English and Spanish
- Contact number: (956) 795-8100
Additional Resources for Finding the Right Pulmonologist
Online platforms for doctor reviews
Healthgrades and other reputable websites
- Utilize Healthgrades for comprehensive doctor profiles
- Compare ratings and reviews across multiple platforms
Interpreting online ratings and reviews
- Consider the number of reviews (star count)
- Look for patterns in patient feedback
- Understand the context of ratings (e.g., Dr. Deliz Velez's 4.2 rating from 10 reviews)
Recommendations from primary care physicians
Importance of referrals
- Discuss your respiratory concerns with your primary doctor
- Ask about experiences with local pulmonologists
Coordinating care with other specialists
- Consider pulmonologists with multiple specialties (e.g., Dr. Llanes with Sleep Medicine)
- Explore potential for comprehensive care plans
Local health organizations and support groups
Resources for patients with specific respiratory conditions
- Research support groups for conditions like COPD or asthma
- Inquire about educational programs at local hospitals (Doctors Hospital of Laredo, Laredo Medical Center)
Community health initiatives in Laredo
- Check for pulmonary health screenings or events
- Explore telehealth options for consultations with specialists