Best Rheumatologists in Salinas

Introduction to Rheumatology in Salinas

Definition and scope of rheumatology

Rheumatology is a specialized branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the joints, muscles, and bones. Rheumatologists in Salinas, California, are trained to manage a wide range of complex conditions that can significantly impact a patient's quality of life.

These medical professionals are experts in treating various autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, lupus, gout, and fibromyalgia, among others. Their expertise extends to managing both acute and chronic conditions that can affect patients of all ages.

Importance of choosing the right rheumatologist

Selecting an appropriate rheumatologist is a significant decision that can greatly influence the quality of care and overall treatment outcomes. The right specialist will not only accurately diagnose your condition but also develop a tailored treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and concerns.

In the field of rheumatology, personalized care is particularly important. Each patient's experience with rheumatological conditions can be unique, and treatment approaches often need to be adjusted based on individual responses and lifestyle factors. A skilled rheumatologist in Salinas will take the time to understand your personal health goals and work collaboratively with you to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Overview of Rheumatologist Selection in Salinas

Factors to consider when choosing a rheumatologist

Board certifications and qualifications

• Importance of American Board of Internal Medicine certification
• Educational background and specialized training

Patient ratings and reviews

• Analysis of star ratings from Healthgrades
• Consideration of the number of patient reviews

Language capabilities

• Availability of multilingual physicians in Salinas
• Benefits of communication in preferred language

Gender preferences

• Options for male and female rheumatologists
• Importance of personal comfort in doctor-patient relationship

Available resources for finding rheumatologists

Online platforms

• Utilization of Healthgrades for doctor information
• Other potential online directories and rating websites

Local medical community

• Referrals from primary care physicians
• Recommendations from local hospitals or medical centers

Top-Ranked Rheumatologists in Salinas

Dr. Muneera Atcha

Highest Star Rating

• 5.0 out of 5 stars
• Based on 1 patient review

Qualifications

• Board Certified by American Board of Internal Medicine
• Graduated from Dow Medical College Karachi in 2007

Contact Information

• Phone: (831) 424-1400
• Languages: English

Dr. Susie Suh

Patient Reviews

• 3.0 out of 5 stars
• Based on 32 patient reviews

Education and Certifications

• Board Certified by American Board of Internal Medicine
• Graduated from University of California in 1988
• Fellowship at Cedar Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA

Languages and Contact

• Languages: English, Korean
• Phone: (831) 424-1400

Dr. Glorietta Ang-Fonte

Experience and Education

• Graduated from University Of Santo Tomas, Faculty Of Medicine And Surgery in 1972
• Multiple residencies including Elizabeth Gen Medical Center and University Of Mi Hosps And Health Ctrs

Patient Feedback

• 3.0 out of 5 stars
• Based on 2 patient reviews

Languages and Contact

• Languages: English, Tagalog
• Phone: (831) 751-6222

Dr. Neville Udwadia

Qualifications

• Board Certified by American Board of Internal Medicine
• Graduated from Ross University School of Medicine in 2000

Patient Reviews

• 2.6 out of 5 stars
• Based on 35 patient reviews

Languages and Contact

• Languages: English, Chinese
• Phone: (831) 625-4525

Additional Tips for Choosing a Rheumatologist in Salinas

Importance of Initial Consultations

Preparing Questions for the First Appointment

• Create a list of symptoms and concerns
• Inquire about treatment approaches and philosophies
• Ask about availability and communication methods

Assessing Communication Style and Patient Comfort

• Evaluate the doctor's ability to explain complex medical terms
• Consider the overall atmosphere of the clinic
• Assess the doctor's willingness to address all your concerns

Considering Practical Factors

Office Location and Accessibility

• Compare the locations of different rheumatologists in Salinas
• Consider proximity to your home or workplace
• Evaluate parking options and public transit accessibility

Insurance Acceptance and Cost of Care

• Verify if the rheumatologist accepts your insurance plan
• Inquire about out-of-pocket costs for consultations and treatments
• Discuss payment plans or financial assistance options if needed

Leveraging Additional Resources

Utilizing Online Platforms

• Explore patient reviews on Healthgrades for Salinas rheumatologists
• Compare star ratings and review counts from the provided data
• Use the provided links to access detailed profiles on Healthgrades

Considering Language and Cultural Factors

• Note that Dr. Susie Suh speaks Korean in addition to English
• Consider Dr. Glorietta Ang-Fonte for Tagalog-speaking patients
• Dr. Neville Udwadia offers services in Chinese and English