How to Choose the Right ENT
If you need help from an ENT doctor, you’ll likely need ongoing appointments for several years, as issues of the ear, nose, and throat are often chronic. Treating these areas requires a wide skill set and working knowledge of new treatments.
Problems that can be treated by ENTs include:
- Allergies and sinus disorders
- Head and neck issues, including tumors
- Breathing issues
- Chronic throat pain
- Hearing and other ear problems
If you suffer from an issue like those above, you’ll need to find a reliable and experienced ENT in your area.
The first thing you should consider is your insurance policy, as this will put a limit on some ENT offices. Westside Head & Neck is in-network with most insurance, PPO’s, HMO’s, and Medicare. Your insurance agency may also have a list of covered ENTs for you to choose from.
You can also check with our healthcare provider if you’re still wondering which ENTs near you offer good service. You can also try asking your friends, family, and coworkers. Chances are good that someone you know already has an ear, nose and throat specialist.
Factors to Consider
There are a few factors that should be considered during your ENT search.
First of all, a board certification is recommended, as an ENT with a board certification has a four-year college degree, has completed four years of medical school, and then has undergone five further years of training. The final step in getting a board certification is passing the ABO – American Board of Otolaryngology. Some of the doctors of Westside Head & Neck have actually served on the ABO, meaning that they are constantly up to state with medical standards.
Second of all, most doctors’ offices have online reviews where the public can detail their experience. Customer service is an often overlooked but invaluable part of being a doctor, as patients are relying on doctors for pain relief and help with their symptoms.
Third, choosing an experienced doctor is essential. Having seen years or even decades of patients can help them give you a more accurate diagnosis.
Westside Head & Neck in Los Angeles is an ENT doctor group that meets all of these requirements.