by Jeffrey Ware

Created on: September 15, 2010

Varicose veins affect a huge part of the population today. Unlike the past, new technology and procedures have revolutionized the treatment of varicose veins and other venous disorders that is the most beneficial to the patient. Treatment no longer requires hospitalization or general anesthesia or down time for the patient. There are many doctors from many different specialties performing these highly technical treatments. The problem is that not all of these doctors are qualified enough to provide the patient with optimal outcomes. How do patients choose a highly qualified vein doctor? They ask certain questions and perform a little research before agreeing to become a patient.  Here we will discuss what questions to ask and where to find the information needed to make a sound decision.

Patients, or prospective patients should never be afraid to ask doctors questions. If they feel uncomfortable asking questions a family member or friend could act as a patient advocate. If the doctor is uncomfortable answering or avoids answering any questions it is a good sign he or she does not have the correct answer. When this happens it is definitely time to move on and talk with a different doctor. Chances are pretty good they are not comfortable with the technology or procedures the patient requires.

Question #1 - Is the doctor board certified in Phlebology?

 To become an ABPh diplomat, an applicant must complete the requisite training or experience qualifications, meet the continued medical education requisites, and pass a stringent certification examination offered by the American Board of Phlebology.  Certification periods are ten years and maintenance is dependent on the ability of the diplomat to display competency in four areas of assessment, evidence of professional standing, evidence of commitment to life-long learning and periodic assessment, evidence of cognitive expertise and evaluation of performance in practice. This certification can be confirmed by visiting the American Board of Phlebology web site and click on the “find a physician” button. This question can be avoided by researching first.

Question #2 – Where did they train to become a phlebologist (vein doctor)?

Believe it or not many of the doctors performing these highly technical varicose vein treatments were actually trained by a sales representative. This is not the best training because the sales representative’s main concern is selling their equipment and

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