Best Pulmonologists in Chesapeake

Introduction to Pulmonology in Chesapeake

Definition and scope of pulmonology

Pulmonology is a medical specialty focused on diagnosing and treating diseases of the respiratory system. This includes conditions affecting the lungs, airways, and other structures involved in breathing.

Respiratory health is essential for overall well-being, as it directly impacts our ability to oxygenate our bodies and remove waste gases. Maintaining good lung function is necessary for daily activities and long-term health.

Overview of pulmonology services in Chesapeake

Chesapeake, Virginia, is home to several qualified pulmonologists who offer comprehensive care for respiratory conditions. Based on the provided data, there are at least 12 pulmonologists practicing in the area, ensuring residents have access to specialized care.

Local pulmonologists in Chesapeake treat a wide range of respiratory issues, including but not limited to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, pneumonia, lung cancer, and sleep-related breathing disorders. Many of these specialists also offer critical care services, demonstrating their expertise in managing complex respiratory conditions.

Selecting a Pulmonologist in Chesapeake

Factors to consider when choosing a doctor

Board certifications and specializations

• Review American Board of Internal Medicine certifications
• Consider additional certifications in Critical Care Medicine and Sleep Medicine

Hospital affiliations

• Evaluate connections with local hospitals like Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and Chesapeake Regional Medical Center
• Consider the importance of hospital proximity to your location

Patient reviews and ratings

• Examine star ratings and number of reviews on platforms like Healthgrades
• Look for consistent positive feedback across multiple patients

Languages spoken

• Consider doctors who speak languages you're comfortable with
• Note multilingual doctors like Dr. Himanshu Desai who speaks English, Gujarati, and Hindi

Resources for finding pulmonologists

Online directories and rating websites

• Utilize Healthgrades for comprehensive doctor profiles
• Explore other reputable medical review websites

Referrals from primary care physicians

• Consult your primary care doctor for personalized recommendations
• Discuss your specific respiratory concerns to get targeted referrals

Local medical societies and associations

• Check with Virginia Thoracic Society for pulmonology specialists
• Explore resources from the American College of Chest Physicians

Top-Rated Pulmonologists in Chesapeake

Dr. Rutul Shah

Overview

• Highest patient rating (5.0 stars, 21 reviews)
• Specializations: Pulmonary Disease, Critical Care Medicine, Sleep Medicine, Internal Medicine
• Board Certified by American Board of Internal Medicine

Education and Experience

• Fellowships at Lahey Hitchcock Clinic and SUNY Downstate Medical Center
• Internship at Coney Island Hospital
• Medical degree from Pramukhswami Medical College

Practice Information

• Hospital affiliations: Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, Riverside Regional Medical Center
• Languages: English
• Contact: (757) 484-5900

Dr. Melhem Imad

Overview

• Perfect 5.0-star rating (7 reviews)
• Specializations: Critical Care Medicine, Pulmonary Disease, Neurocritical Care
• Board Certified by American Board of Internal Medicine

Education and Experience

• Fellowship at University of Texas Medical Branch Hospital
• Residency and Internship at Staten Island University Hospital - North

Practice Information

• Hospital affiliations: Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, The Outer Banks Hospital, Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital
• Languages: English, Spanish
• Contact: (757) 312-4047

Dr. Jeffrey Forman

Overview

• 5.0-star rating (6 reviews)
• Specializations: Critical Care Medicine, Pulmonary Disease, Internal Medicine
• Board Certified by American Board of Internal Medicine

Education and Experience

• Medical degree from Drexel University College of Medicine (1988)

Practice Information

• Hospital affiliations: Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, Sentara Obici Hospital
• Languages: English
• Contact: (757) 934-9496

Dr. Himanshu Desai

Overview

• 4.4-star rating (19 reviews)
• Specializations: Pulmonary Disease, Critical Care Medicine, Internal Medicine
• Board Certified by American Board of Internal Medicine

Education and Experience

• Fellowship at University at Buffalo - State University of New York
• Residency at Smt Nhl McPl Medical College

Practice Information

• Hospital affiliations: Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, Sentara Leigh Hospital, The Outer Banks Hospital
• Languages: English, Gujarati, Hindi
• Contact: (757) 609-3384

Additional Considerations for Choosing a Pulmonologist

Subspecialties within pulmonology

Sleep medicine

• Doctors specializing in sleep-related breathing disorders
• Importance for patients with conditions like sleep apnea

Critical care

• Pulmonologists with expertise in intensive care settings
• Relevance for patients with severe respiratory conditions

Interventional pulmonology

• Specialists performing advanced diagnostic and therapeutic procedures
• Benefits for patients requiring minimally invasive treatments

Insurance and accessibility

Verifying insurance coverage

• Importance of checking if the doctor is in-network
• Understanding potential out-of-pocket costs

Office locations and accessibility

• Considering proximity to home or work
• Availability of public transportation or parking

Telemedicine options

Availability of virtual consultations

• Doctors offering remote appointments
• Convenience for follow-up visits or minor concerns

Benefits for patients with respiratory conditions

• Reduced exposure to potential pathogens
• Easier access for patients with mobility issues