Best Hematologists in Norfolk

Introduction to Hematology in Norfolk

Definition and scope of hematology

Hematology is the branch of medicine focused on the study, diagnosis, and treatment of blood disorders. This specialized field encompasses a wide range of conditions affecting blood cells, blood-forming organs, and blood coagulation.

Hematologists in Norfolk treat various conditions such as anemia, leukemia, lymphoma, hemophilia, and blood clotting disorders. They play a significant role in managing both benign and malignant blood-related diseases.

Importance of choosing the right hematologist

Selecting an appropriate hematologist is a key factor in ensuring optimal patient care and outcomes. The right specialist can provide accurate diagnoses, develop tailored treatment plans, and offer ongoing support throughout the medical journey.

The complex nature of blood disorders necessitates the expertise of a skilled hematologist. In Norfolk, patients have access to board-certified specialists with extensive training in this field, as evidenced by the qualifications of doctors like Dr. Ranjit Goudar and Dr. Elizabeth Harden, both certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

Overview of Hematologist Selection in Norfolk

Factors to consider when choosing a hematologist

Qualifications and certifications

• Review board certifications (e.g., American Board of Internal Medicine)
• Examine educational background and specialized training

Experience and specializations

• Consider years of practice and areas of focus within hematology
• Look for additional specialties like Medical Oncology or Internal Medicine

Hospital affiliations

• Check associations with reputable hospitals (e.g., Sentara Norfolk General Hospital)
• Consider the convenience of hospital locations

Patient ratings and reviews

• Examine star ratings and number of reviews
• Read patient feedback for insights into doctor-patient relationships

Resources for finding hematologists in Norfolk

Online platforms and directories

• Utilize websites like Healthgrades for comprehensive doctor profiles
• Compare doctors based on standardized criteria and patient feedback

Professional medical associations

• Consult the American Society of Hematology for specialist listings
• Check local medical society recommendations

Insurance provider networks

• Review in-network hematologists through your insurance company
• Consider coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs

Referrals from healthcare professionals

• Seek recommendations from primary care physicians
• Consult with other specialists for informed referrals

Top-Ranked Hematologists in Norfolk

Dr. Ranjit Goudar

Qualifications and Ratings

• Perfect 5.0 star rating with 12 reviews
• Board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
• Medical degree from Duke University

Practice Information

• Specializes in Hematology and Medical Oncology
• Affiliated with multiple Sentara hospitals in the area
• Contact number: (757) 466-8683

Dr. Elizabeth Harden

Experience and Expertise

• 5.0 star rating based on 10 patient reviews
• Graduated from Duke University Medical School in 1977
• Specializes in Hematology, Medical Oncology, and Internal Medicine

Professional Affiliations

• Board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
• Affiliated with Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and other regional hospitals
• Contact number: (757) 466-8683

Dr. Paul Conkling

Credentials and Patient Satisfaction

• 4.9 star rating with 11 patient reviews
• Extensive education including fellowship at Duke University Medical Center
• Board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine

Additional Information

• Specializes in Oncology and Hematology
• Multilingual: speaks English and Spanish
• Affiliated with Sentara hospitals in Norfolk and surrounding areas
• Contact number: (757) 466-8683

Dr. Scott Cross

Qualifications and Patient Feedback

• 4.9 star rating based on 89 patient reviews
• Fellowship at Duke University Medical Center
• Board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine

Practice Details

• Specializes in Hematology and Medical Oncology
• Affiliated with multiple Sentara hospitals in Norfolk and Virginia Beach
• Contact number: (757) 213-5735

Dr. Thomas Alberico

Experience and Patient Satisfaction

• 4.8 star rating with 130 patient reviews
• Fellowship at University of Virginia Hospitals
• Board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine

Areas of Practice

• Specializes in Hematology, Medical Oncology, and Internal Medicine
• Affiliated with Sentara hospitals in Norfolk and Virginia Beach
• Contact number: (757) 466-8683

Additional Tips for Choosing a Hematologist in Norfolk

Importance of personal comfort and communication

Considering gender preferences

• Norfolk offers hematologists of both genders (e.g., Dr. Ranjit Goudar and Dr. Elizabeth Harden are female, while Dr. Paul Conkling and Dr. Scott Cross are male)
• Some patients may feel more comfortable with a specific gender, which can be accommodated in Norfolk

Evaluating communication style

• Consider scheduling initial consultations to assess the doctor's communication approach
• Look for a hematologist who explains complex medical concepts clearly and patiently

Practical considerations

Proximity and accessibility

• Many top-rated hematologists in Norfolk are affiliated with Sentara hospitals, providing options in different areas of the city
• Consider the location of the doctor's office and affiliated hospitals in relation to your home or workplace

Insurance and financial aspects

• Verify if the hematologist accepts your insurance plan
• Inquire about out-of-pocket costs and payment options

Availability and scheduling

• Check the doctor's office hours and appointment availability
• Some practices may offer extended hours or telemedicine options for increased accessibility

Seeking second opinions

Benefits of multiple consultations

• Norfolk's diverse pool of hematologists allows for seeking second opinions easily
• Comparing different approaches can lead to more informed decisions about your care

How to approach getting a second opinion

• Be transparent with your current doctor about seeking additional input
• Prepare a list of questions and concerns for the second consultation
• Consider consulting hematologists with different subspecialties or approaches within the field