Best Pulmonologists in Spokane

Introduction to Pulmonology in Spokane

Definition of pulmonology

Pulmonology is a medical specialty focused on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and disorders affecting the respiratory system. This field encompasses a wide range of conditions that impact the lungs, airways, and associated structures.

Pulmonologists in Spokane are trained to manage various respiratory issues, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, lung cancer, pneumonia, and sleep-related breathing disorders. These specialists play a key role in maintaining and improving respiratory health for patients in the Spokane area.

Importance of choosing the right pulmonologist

Selecting an appropriate pulmonologist is a significant decision that can greatly influence the management of respiratory conditions. The right specialist can provide personalized treatment plans, utilize advanced diagnostic techniques, and offer the latest therapeutic options tailored to each patient's needs.

A skilled pulmonologist can significantly enhance a patient's quality of life by effectively managing respiratory symptoms, improving lung function, and reducing the frequency of exacerbations. This is particularly important in Spokane, where environmental factors such as seasonal changes and air quality can impact respiratory health.

Finding a Pulmonologist in Spokane

Overview of the local medical landscape

Number of pulmonologists available in the area

• Based on the provided data, there are at least 16 pulmonologists practicing in Spokane and the surrounding area
• The majority of listed doctors are located in Spokane, with a few in Spokane Valley

Major healthcare facilities offering pulmonology services

• Providence Holy Family Hospital
• Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and Children's Hospital
• MultiCare Deaconess Hospital
• MultiCare Valley Hospital

Factors to consider when selecting a pulmonologist

Board certifications and qualifications

• All listed pulmonologists are certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
• Some doctors have additional certifications in related fields such as critical care medicine

Experience and specializations

• Consider doctors with expertise in specific areas of pulmonology, such as sleep medicine or critical care
• Review the educational background and years of experience of each physician

Patient ratings and reviews

• Examine the star ratings and number of reviews for each doctor
• Note that not all doctors have ratings, which may indicate newer practices or limited online presence

Hospital affiliations

• Consider the convenience and reputation of the hospitals where the pulmonologist practices
• Some doctors are affiliated with multiple hospitals, offering more options for care

Top-Rated Pulmonologists in Spokane

Dr. Azmina Zieman

Overview

• Perfect 5-star rating based on 2 reviews
• Board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
• Specializes in Pulmonary Disease and Internal Medicine

Professional Details

• Gender: Female
• Languages: English
• Hospital Affiliations: Providence Mount Carmel Hospital and Prov Sacred HRT Medical Center and Childs Hosp.

Contact Information

• Phone: (509) 465-3919
• More details available on Healthgrades profile

Dr. Lawrence Klock Jr

Overview

• 5-star rating based on 1 review
• Board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
• Specializes in Pulmonary Disease and Internal Medicine

Professional Details

• Gender: Male
• Languages: English
• Education: University of Washington (Medical School, 1968)

Contact Information

• Phone: (509) 455-9721
• More details available on Healthgrades profile

Dr. Michael Hixon

Overview

• 4-star rating based on 4 reviews
• Board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine and American Board of Pediatrics
• Diverse specialties including Pulmonary Disease, Internal Medicine, and Cardiology

Professional Details

• Gender: Male
• Languages: English
• Education: Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine (Medical School, 1982)
• Hospital Affiliation: Providence Holy Family Hospital

Contact Information

• Phone: (509) 458-5800
• More details available on Healthgrades profile

Additional Resources for Finding the Right Pulmonologist in Spokane

Online Platforms for Doctor Reviews and Ratings

Healthgrades

• Overview of Healthgrades as a resource
• How to use Healthgrades to compare pulmonologists in Spokane

Interpreting Online Ratings and Reviews

• Understanding the star rating system
• Considering the number of reviews
• Looking for patterns in patient feedback

Consulting with Primary Care Physicians

Importance of Referrals

• Leveraging your primary care doctor's network
• Getting personalized recommendations based on your medical history

Coordinating Care Between Specialists

• Ensuring seamless communication between your primary care doctor and pulmonologist
• Benefits of integrated care for respiratory health management

Exploring Local Hospital Affiliations

Key Hospitals in Spokane for Pulmonology Care

• Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center
• MultiCare Deaconess Hospital
• Providence Holy Family Hospital

Benefits of Choosing Affiliated Pulmonologists

• Access to advanced medical facilities
• Potential for more coordinated care