Orthopedic Doctors in Kenya
Kenya is among the few African countries to boast of having a number of specialized doctors in orthopedics. Most of them, especially orthopedic doctors are well read, with vast experience both abroad and local. It therefore can be a daunting task to look for one, keeping in mind that they will be responsible for your mobility and health-being for the a long time.
You can however be methodological once you decide to seek and settle for an orthopedic surgeon. You will be lucky if you get referral among your circles of friends but if not, you can choose from the various ones who both are practicing in public hospitals or/and have set up a private outfit.
Dr. Ezekiel Oburu is one of the well known orthopedic surgeons in Kenya and has his private practice at Fortis Suites, 1st Floor Hospital Road, Upper Hill in Nairobi.
How to find the best orthopedic surgeon in Kenya
Best can be a relative word but what you want is a doctor who understands your needs and is investing his/her expertise to your well being. Therefore to settle on one, you can start by:
- Finding out his/her qualifications
- Finding out the costs and availability of the doctor in your locality or in the country
- Checking his experience
Checking the doctors credentials
This understandably can be a daunting task bearing in mind the number of cases of unqualified doctors that have arisen in Kenya over the recent past. But then luckily, under Cap 253 Laws of Kenya, the country has a constituted Medical Practitioners and Dentist Board, that regulates the practice of medicine and dentistry in the country. They are also tasked with registering medical and dental students upon admission to a university, eligible medical and dental practitioners and maintain an up-to-date annual register of medical practitioners.
This can therefore help you find an experienced, well-regarded orthopedic doctor and surgeon who you can trust with your well-being. Finding and relying on one can be a big boost to your medical journey especially if your case is complicated and you need multiple medical procedures. Working with the same doctor or surgeon means that he/she understands your case and has an in-depth understanding of your prospects and limitations. He/she can also be the best person to use to get a more advanced care and is the person who will do a close follow-up in case you have decided to seek options abroad.
Besides using the Medical Practitioners and Dentist Board registry, you can get referrals from your primary care giver on the best orthopedics near you.
Moreover you can also speak to your friends who may know or have heard of good orthopedic surgeons in your locality. This will enable you reach out further to the patients and inquire on the care and costs offered by the referred orthopedic doctor or surgeon. Knowing the doctor before meeting him/her will give you a huge sense of confidence and this would also enable you understand the kind of care you can expect from the practice.
Checking on the costs and the doctors availability
Referral and background research can reveal information such as costs to help you prepare for your medical journey. You will also need to know the availability of the doctor and whether he/she only sees patience by appointment. In addition, you need to know whether your insurance will cover the costs of the doctor’s visits and surgery.