Best Rheumatologists in Waco

Introduction to Rheumatology in Waco

Definition of Rheumatology

Rheumatology is a specialized branch of medicine focused on diagnosing and treating diseases that affect the joints, muscles, and bones. These conditions, known as rheumatic diseases, can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in various parts of the body.

Rheumatologists in Waco commonly treat conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, lupus, gout, and other autoimmune disorders that affect the musculoskeletal system.

Importance of Choosing the Right Rheumatologist

Selecting an appropriate rheumatologist is essential for effective management of rheumatic conditions. The right specialist can provide accurate diagnoses, develop personalized treatment plans, and offer ongoing care to improve a patient's quality of life.

Local expertise in Waco is particularly valuable as these specialists are familiar with the specific healthcare landscape, community resources, and environmental factors that may influence rheumatic conditions in the area. According to our data, Waco has several qualified rheumatologists, including Dr. Shalene Badhan and Dr. Hing-Sheung Fung, who bring diverse experiences to the local medical community.

Overview of Rheumatologist Selection Process in Waco

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Rheumatologist

Qualifications and Certifications

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

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• Analyze star ratings from platforms like Healthgrades
• Consider the number of reviews (e.g., Dr. Fung has 32 reviews)

Language and Communication

• Check for multilingual capabilities (e.g., Dr. Fung speaks multiple languages)
• Evaluate the importance of clear communication in your care

Available Resources for Finding Rheumatologists in Waco

Online Directories and Review Platforms

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

Local Medical Facilities

• Research rheumatology departments in Waco hospitals
• Inquire about rheumatology clinics in the area

Professional Associations

• Consult the American College of Rheumatology for member listings
• Check with Texas Medical Association for local recommendations

Top-Ranked Rheumatologists in Waco

Dr. Shalene Badhan

Background and Qualifications

• Medical degree from St. Matthews University School of Medicine (2009)
• Internship at Saint Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center (2008)
• Board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
• Specializes in Rheumatology and Internal Medicine

Patient Ratings and Reviews

• Star rating: 3.8 out of 5
• Based on 11 patient reviews
• Above average rating among Waco rheumatologists

Practice Details

• Gender: Female
• Languages: English
• Contact number: (914) 930-2007
• More information available on Healthgrades profile

Dr. Hing-Sheung Fung

Experience and Educational Background

• Extensive medical education, including fellowship and residency at University of Toronto
• Medical degree from National Taiwan University, College of Medicine (1971)
• Board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
• Specializes in Rheumatology and Internal Medicine

Language Capabilities

• Fluent in multiple languages: English, Cantonese, Chinese, Mandarin, and Spanish
• Ability to communicate with a diverse patient population

Patient Feedback and Ratings

• Star rating: 2.9 out of 5
• Based on 32 patient reviews
• Contact number: (254) 776-3070

Other Notable Practitioners

Elizabeth Flynn (Nurse Practitioner)

• Specializes in Rheumatology and Gerontology Nursing
• Educational background includes University of Utah (1982) and Marillac College (1962)
• Experienced in Adult Medicine and Clinical Nursing

Alice Ogden (Nurse Practitioner)

• Focuses on Rheumatology and Adult Health Nursing
• Provides specialized nurse practitioner services in rheumatology

Karen Rollow

• Specializes in Rheumatology
• Contact number: (254) 755-4582
• Limited information available, patients advised to inquire directly

Additional Resources for Finding the Right Rheumatologist in Waco

Utilizing Online Resources

Healthgrades

• Detailed profiles of Dr. Shalene Badhan and Dr. Hing-Sheung Fung
• Access to patient ratings and reviews

Other reputable medical directories

• Cross-referencing information from multiple sources
• Checking for additional rheumatologists not listed in our data

Considering Nurse Practitioners

Benefits of seeing a Nurse Practitioner

• Potentially shorter wait times
• Comprehensive care approach

Notable Nurse Practitioners in Waco

• Elizabeth Flynn - expertise in Gerontology Nursing
• Alice Ogden - specializing in Adult Health Nursing

Evaluating Language and Communication

Multilingual options

• Dr. Hing-Sheung Fung: English, Cantonese, Chinese, Mandarin, Spanish
• Importance of clear communication in rheumatology care