It goes without saying that your health is very important. However, finding the right doctor to diagnose your condition and come up with a comprehensive treatment plan is not always an easy task.
This is particularly the case when it comes to vascular conditions. In Australia, there are many titles that a clinician might use to indicate their interest and level of experience in treating vein issues. Understanding the difference between, for example, a vascular surgeon and a phlebologist will help you seek out the right clinician for your condition.
Regardless of what vascular condition you are suffering from, making an appointment with a vascular surgeon is always a good idea. A vascular surgeon is a highly qualified individual with advanced post-graduate training, meaning they can offer a comprehensive array of treatment options.
Continue reading to discover a little more about the advantages of seeing a vascular surgeon over other related clinicians.
An Overview of Vein Practitioners
If you are suffering from a vascular condition, such as varicose veins or deep vein thrombosis, there are a number of different clinicians you might choose to visit for treatment. In Australia, there is a significant difference in the qualifications and experience level of each of these clinicians. Let’s learn a little more about the many different types of vein practitioners.
Vascular Surgeon
A vascular surgeon is a medical specialist who is qualified to treat all manner of vascular and arterial conditions. In Australia, a vascular surgeon must fulfill certain criteria to obtain their Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons in Vascular Surgery. This qualification is recognised by the Australian Medical Council and signals that the surgeon has received formal training in the treatment of vascular and arterial diseases.
As is the case with any system of the body, vascular and arterial conditions can be difficult to diagnose. Your health is not an area you want to be cutting corners, which is why it’s a good idea to immediately seek specialist assistance should you be suffering painful or irritating symptoms. A vascular surgeon will be able to offer comprehensive treatment options that are tailored to your specific condition.
Dr Adrian Ling is an experienced provider of vascular surgery and treatment. In addition to his strong medical skills, patients appreciate his warm and professional communication style.
Phlebologist
When researching different types of vein practitioners, you might come across what is known as a phlebologist. A phlebologist is a broad term used to describe any type of practitioner who has experience treating veins. Unlike a vascular surgeon, a phlebologist is not a formal title approved by the Australian Medical Council. A phlebologist will have obtained a medical school degree and may have undertaken additional specialist training, however, there is no obligation for them to do so.
Radiologist/Interventionist
A radiologist or interventionist is a clinician who has received advanced training in the diagnosis and treatment of health issues in a minimally invasive manner. Many of the common types of vascular conditions, including spider veins and varicose veins, can now be treated using techniques that require little rest and recovery time.
However, unlike a vascular surgeon, a radiologist or interventionist has not received training in the diagnosis of more advanced vascular and arterial diseases, which can pose significant risk to your health.
General Surgeon
Oftentimes, when something is wrong with our health, our first port of call is to a GP or general surgeon. While this type of practitioner has many skills, they do not possess the training required to diagnose and treat more specialist conditions. In fact, a general practitioner may refer you to a vascular surgeon so that you can receive the treatment you require.
How to Find the Right Vascular Surgeon
It is clear that there are many advantages to seeing a qualified vascular surgeon. However, how can you be confident that your surgeon has the experience and skills required to diagnose and treat you in an efficient manner?
Finding the right vascular surgeon is as important as settling on the right type of vein practitioner. Here are a few strategies that can help your search:
● Ask for a referral: If you have a GP that you trust, ask them for a recommendation and referral. They likely have a network of contacts which may contain a vascular surgeon.
● Ask friends and family: Vascular conditions are very common. It is highly likely that someone within your group of friends and family has seen a vascular surgeon and they may be able to give you a recommendation.
● Research online: Many vascular surgeons have an online presence. A surgeon with an engaging website is a good sign that they are connected to the community and up to date on the latest treatment options.
The right vascular surgeon will offer you comprehensive treatment options and guide you through every step of the journey, from diagnosis to recovery.
