How to Choose an Orthopedic Surgeon
February 23, 2026
Categories: Orthopedic and Sports Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery
Your Guide to Making the Right Decision for Your Orthopedic Care
Choosing an orthopedic surgeon is an important decision that directly affects your recovery, quality of life and overall health. Whether you are facing a sports injury, dealing with chronic joint pain or need orthopedic surgery, knowing how to identify a qualified, experienced surgeon you can trust helps ensure you receive the best possible care.
Here’s how to approach the process with confidence.
Ask Your Doctor
Ask your primary care physician for a referral to an orthopedic specialist. Your doctor knows your personal health history and can recommend surgeons they know and trust. It’s often helpful to request more than one name. Having more choices gives you options if a particular surgeon isn't accepting new patients, doesn’t accept your insurance or has long wait times.
These questions will get you started:
- Are you taking new patients?
- Do you accept my insurance?
- What are your office hours?
- Where are your offices located? Do you have more than one location?
- What is the average wait time to get an appointment?
- How many doctors are in the practice? Who will see me if you’re not available?
- Where will I have tests and procedures done?
Get Recommendations from Family and Friends
Personal recommendations from friends, family members or colleagues who have had similar orthopedic issues can also be valuable. Ask about the care they received, the outcome and how well the surgeon communicated during treatment.
Questions to ask include:
- Were you involved in the care and decision-making process?
- How well did the doctor explain things?
- Are the nurses and support staff responsive and helpful?
- Was it easy to schedule an appointment? How long did it take to be seen?
- Were you satisfied with your care? Why or why not?
Check Experience and Expertise
Experience matters, especially when it comes to complex procedures. Research shows that the more times a surgeon performs a procedure, the better the outcome tends to be. Orthopedic surgeons typically undergo extensive training that includes medical school, a multi- year residency in orthopedic surgery and board certification. Some also complete additional fellowship training to further fine-tune their skills.
Orthopedic surgeons who are board-certified have completed additional training after medical school. They have also passed a detailed examination in their specialty area. You can verify board certification through the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS).
Fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons have undergone even more specialized training focused on their specialty area. During their fellowship, they work closely with other experts, gaining advanced, hands-on experience and learning the most effective techniques.
Review the credentials of the orthopedic specialists you're considering, including their training and whether they're board-certified or fellowship-trained. Both indicate advanced expertise in their specialty area.
Asking these questions can help you make an informed decision:
- How long have you been practicing orthopedics?
- How much experience do you have treating my condition?
- How many orthopedic procedures do you perform every year?
- What are your rates for infection and readmission after orthopedic surgery?
- Are you involved in any research, clinical trials or innovative treatment options?
- How do you feel about involving my family in my care?
- Can I call or email your office if I have questions?
Get Comfortable
Choose an orthopedic surgeon you feel comfortable talking with – after all, you are literally putting your health in their hands. A doctor who listens to your concerns, explains your diagnosis clearly and encourages you to ask questions is vital to your health and well-being.
Schedule a consultation with your top contender to see if they’re a good fit. After you meet, if you can say “Yes” to the following questions, you may have just added a new member to your healthcare team. If you answer “No,” you may want to keep looking for a better match for your needs.
Ask yourself:
- Was the office easy to get to?
- Was the office staff friendly and helpful?
- Did the surgeon take time to answer my questions?
- Were their explanations easy to understand?
- Did I feel heard and respected?
- Was I given all the information I need to make educated decisions about my orthopedic care?
Take the Next Step with Confidence
If you’re looking for an orthopedic team that truly listens and puts your goals first, Witham Orthopedics and Sports Medicine is here for you. Schedule a consultation to receive a clear diagnosis and explore your treatment options. Together, we’ll create a personalized care plan focused on relieving pain, restoring mobility and helping you get back to the life you love.
About our Orthopedic Team
The orthopedic team at Witham Orthopedics and Sports Medicine is made up of board-certified surgeons and experienced providers dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of joint and musculoskeletal conditions. Our team uses advanced imaging, evidence-based treatments and personalized care plans to relieve your pain, restore mobility and help you return to the activities you enjoy.
Sources:
https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/treatment/finding-the-right-orthopaedic-surgeon/
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/medical-care-and-appointments/how-choose-doctor-you-can-talk
https://odphp.health.gov/myhealthfinder/doctor-visits/regular-checkups/choosing-doctor-quick-tips
https://familydoctor.org/how-to-choose-a-family-doctor/