The 20 Best Swallowing Difficulty Doctors Near Me in Lakewood, WA

Find the Top Swallowing Difficulty Experts and Specialists

Last Updated: 04/28/2026

Save doctors for later
Sign Up
Not sure about your diagnosis?
Check Your Symptoms
Already have a doctor?
Find A Second Opinion

MediFind found 128 doctor with experience in Swallowing Difficulty near Lakewood, WA. Of these, 89 are Experienced, 38 are Advanced and 1 are Distinguished.

Location
LocationClose
128 providers found
    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Gastroenterology
    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Gastroenterology

    Franciscan Digestive Care Associates - Lakewood

    11311 Bridgeport Way SW, Suite 207, 
    Lakewood, WA 
     (1.4 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    William Hirota, MD has a sincere desire to work closely with his colleagues and patients to provide the highest quality of GI care in a compassionate and timely fashion.He is actively involved in physician leadership development, public policy regarding health care delivery, local community charity care and participating in improving quality care measurements in GI. Dr. Hirota is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Swallowing Difficulty. He is also highly rated in 42 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Crohn's Disease, Barrett Esophagus, Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, and Indigestion. Dr. Hirota is board certified in Gastroenterology. Dr. Hirota is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Gastroenterology
    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Gastroenterology

    Franciscan Digestive Care Associates - Lakewood

    11311 Bridgeport Way SW, Suite 207, 
    Lakewood, WA 
     (1.4 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Johnathan Ha, MD, is a board-certified internist who specializes in digestive disorders, from acid reflux and gastric ulcers, to hepatitis and other liver diseases, to colonoscopy and bowel disorders.Dr. Ha is a member of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) and the American Gastroenterological Association. In 2016, he was awarded the AASLD Emerging Liver Scholar Award and has co-authored many articles in peer-reviewed journals. Dr. Ha is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Swallowing Difficulty. He is also highly rated in 24 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, Turcot Syndrome, Gardner Syndrome, and Hemorrhoids. Dr. Ha is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine. Dr. Ha is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Otolaryngology
    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Otolaryngology

    Franciscan Ear, Nose & Throat Associates At St. Clare

    11311 Bridgeport Way SW, Suite 309, 
    Lakewood, WA 
     (1.4 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    David Timme, MD, specializes in otolaryngology, including the medical and surgical management and treatment of patients with disorders of the ear, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck.Dr. Timme places a strong emphasis on listening carefully to each patient in order to obtain a thoughtful and accurate diagnosis. He offers care that is tailored to each patient in accordance with the latest technology and accepted medical standards.Dr. Timme is a member of the American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, American Academy of Otolaryngic Allergy and American Medical Association. Dr. Timme is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Swallowing Difficulty. He is also highly rated in 39 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Infant Hearing Loss, Tinnitus, Dry Mouth, Sialadenitis, and Tissue Biopsy. Dr. Timme is board certified in American Board Of Otolaryngology. Dr. Timme is currently accepting new patients.

    Learn about our expert tiers
    Distinguished in Swallowing Difficulty
    Gastroenterology
    Distinguished in Swallowing Difficulty
    Gastroenterology

    Franciscan Digestive Care Associates - Pearl Place

    6002 N Westgate Blvd, Suite 230, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (6.5 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Brian Mulhall, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with fellowship training in gastroenterology and hepatology. Dr. Mulhall also holds a Master of Public Health degree from the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences. He served as Director of the Center for Liver Disease at Walter Reed Medical Center.Dr. Mulhall has special medical interests in inflammatory bowel disease, biliary and liver processes, along with functional intestinal disorders. He has received international recognition for his research, teaching and published articles.Dr. Mulhall has been active in the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) and American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Dr. Mulhall is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Swallowing Difficulty. He is also highly rated in 31 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Gardner Syndrome, Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, Painful Swallowing, Colonoscopy, and Endoscopy. Dr. Mulhall is board certified in Gastroenterology. Dr. Mulhall is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty

    Franciscan Ear, Nose & Throat Associates At St. Joseph

    1608 S J Street, 5th Floor, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (5.5 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Spanish
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Douglas Sorensen, MD, FACS, is a head and neck surgeon with advanced training in head and neck surgical oncology. He has extensive experience in thyroid and parathyroid surgery, including minimally invasive techniques. Dr. Sorenson also offers treatment for general ear, nose and throat disorders.Dr. Sorensen retired from a distinguished military career as a head and neck surgeon. Passionate about patient care, he remains current in the latest technology, and provides education to his peers regionally and nationally.In his off hours, Dr. Sorensen enjoys family, water sports, running, and exploring the Cascades. Dr. Sorensen is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Swallowing Difficulty. He is also highly rated in 49 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Parathyroid Adenoma, Parathyroid Cancer, Sialadenitis, Thyroidectomy, and Septoplasty. Dr. Sorensen is board certified in Otolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery. Dr. Sorensen is currently accepting new patients.

    Experienced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Internal Medicine
    Experienced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Internal Medicine
    1608 S J St Fl, Suite 3, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (5.5 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Japanese, Mandarin, Polish, Spanish
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    John Smoots is a primary care provider, practicing in Internal Medicine in Tacoma, Washington. Dr. Smoots is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Swallowing Difficulty. He is also highly rated in 36 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Scoliosis, Urinary Tract Infection in Children, Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), and Osteoporosis. Dr. Smoots is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Gastroenterology
    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Gastroenterology

    Franciscan Medical Group

    1812 S J St, Suite 120, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (6.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Sangik Oh, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with fellowship training in gastroenterology. Dr. Oh served as Chief Medical Resident during his internal medicine residency. During his gastroenterology fellowship, he also earned his Master's degree in Medical Science from Harvard Medical School. He was also the recipient of the 2002 AASLD/Schering Advanced Hepatology Fellowship Award.Upon completion of his fellowship, Dr. Oh joined the faculty at Harvard Medical School and was a staff gastroenterologist at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center before joining Tacoma Digestive Disease Center in 2005, which is now Franciscan Digestive Care Associates. Dr. Oh is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Swallowing Difficulty. He is also highly rated in 45 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Visceromegaly, Enlarged Liver, Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, Cirrhosis, and Endoscopy. Dr. Oh is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine, Subspecialty In Gastroenterology. Dr. Oh is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Gastroenterology
    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Gastroenterology

    Franciscan Digestive Care Associates - Pearl Place

    6002 N Westgate Blvd, Suite 230, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (6.5 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Steven Larson, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with fellowship training in gastroenterology and hepatology. Dr. Larson received his undergraduate and medical degrees as part of a United States Air Force scholarship program.Dr. Larson has published numerous research papers and has presented his research at national meetings. He has a strong interest in treating patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Other areas of interest include capsule endoscopy, colon cancer prevention and functional bowel diseases.He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology, American Gastroenterological Association and the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Dr. Larson is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Swallowing Difficulty. He is also highly rated in 33 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Crohn's Disease, Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, Gardner Syndrome, Endoscopy, and Gastrectomy. Dr. Larson is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine, Subspecialty In Gastroenterology. Dr. Larson is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Gastroenterology
    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Gastroenterology

    Franciscan Digestive Care Associates - Pearl Place

    6002 N Westgate Blvd, Suite 230, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (6.5 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    John Sun, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing comprehensive digestive care for adults. In addition to general gastroenterology, he has specific experience in the management of inflammatory bowel disease, small intestinal disease and celiac disease.Dr. Sun believes in establishing a therapeutic partnership with his patients, and a close working relationship with his physician colleagues, in order to achieve the best outcomes. He takes the time to educate patients on their condition, treatment options and outcomes so they can make informed choices to feel their best.Dr. Sun is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology. Dr. Sun is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Swallowing Difficulty. He is also highly rated in 33 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Diarrhea, Trichohepatoenteric Syndrome, Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, Endoscopy, and Colonoscopy. Dr. Sun is board certified in Gastroenterology, American Board Of Internal Medicine. Dr. Sun is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Gastroenterology
    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Gastroenterology

    Franciscan Digestive Care Associates - Pearl Place

    6002 N Westgate Blvd, Suite 230, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (6.5 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Alan Urbina-Alvarez, MD, is a gastroenterologist who is skilled in all areas of adult general gastroenterology. He believes communication and compassion are the keys to establishing a successful and trustful relationship with patients. As a colleague, he promotes an interdisciplinary approach to patient care in order to achieve the mutual goal of creating a positive impact on patients' lives.Dr. Urbina-Alvarez is a member of the American Gastroenterological Association, American College of Gastroenterology and American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.Outside of work, Dr. Urbina-Alvarez enjoys hiking, traveling, bicycling and playing tennis. Dr. Urbina is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Swallowing Difficulty. He is also highly rated in 24 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Hemorrhoids, Hiatal Hernia, Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia, Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency, and Gastrectomy. Dr. Urbina is board certified in Gastroenterology, American Board Of Internal Medicine. Dr. Urbina is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Gastroenterology
    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Gastroenterology

    Franciscan Digestive Care Associates - Gig Harbor

    4700 Point Fosdick Drive NW, Suite 320, 
    Gig Harbor, WA 
     (10.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Korean
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Kyung W. Noh, MD, is a board-certified, fellowship-trained gastroenterologist. During his fellowship, he also received advanced training in endoscopic ultrasound.Dr. Noh specializes in pancreatic diseases and endoscopic ultrasound. He has published numerous articles in major peer-reviewed journals and has presented at national and international meetings. His professional memberships include the American Gastroenterological Association, American College of Gastroenterology and American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Dr. Noh is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Swallowing Difficulty. He is also highly rated in 30 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, Turcot Syndrome, Gardner Syndrome, Gastrectomy, and Endoscopy. Dr. Noh is board certified in Gastroenterology. Dr. Noh is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Gastroenterology
    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Gastroenterology

    Franciscan Digestive Care Associates - Gig Harbor

    4700 Point Fosdick Drive NW, Suite 320, 
    Gig Harbor, WA 
     (10.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Hindi, Telugu
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Kalyan Kanneganti, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist who is skilled in all areas of adult general gastroenterology and hepatology, with special medical interest in colonoscopy for colon cancer screening and the management of GI bleeding, viral hepatitis, complex liver diseases and GERD.Dr. Kanneganti focuses on providing holistic, compassionate and patient-centered care. He strives to help patients understand their disease process and involve them in shared decision making.Dr. Kanneganti is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology, American Gastroenterological Association and American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Dr. Kanneganti is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Swallowing Difficulty. He is also highly rated in 36 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, Gardner Syndrome, Turcot Syndrome, Endoscopy, and Gastrectomy. Dr. Kanneganti is board certified in Gastroenterology, American Board Of Internal Medicine. Dr. Kanneganti is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Gastroenterology
    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Gastroenterology

    Franciscan Digestive Care Associates-Lakewood

    11311 Bridgeport Way SW Ste 207, 
    Lakewood, WA 
     (0.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Seyed Jalali is a Gastroenterologist practicing medicine in Lakewood, Washington. Dr. Jalali is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Swallowing Difficulty. He is also highly rated in 30 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Swallowing Difficulty, Painful Swallowing, Gastritis, Portal Hypertension, and Endoscopy.

    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Gastroenterology
    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Gastroenterology

    Franciscan Digestive Care Associates - Lakewood

    11311 Bridgeport Way SW Ste 207, 
    Lakewood, WA 
     (0.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Venkat Nutalapati is a Gastroenterologist practicing medicine in Lakewood, Washington. Dr. Nutalapati is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Swallowing Difficulty. He is also highly rated in 26 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, Gardner Syndrome, Turcot Syndrome, Colonoscopy, and Endoscopy.

    Experienced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Internal Medicine
    Experienced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Internal Medicine

    Franciscan Medical Clinic - Lakewood

    11307 Bridgeport Way SW, Suite 200, 
    Lakewood, WA 
     (1.4 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Joseph Regimbal, MD, is a board-certified physician who specializes in internal medicine and geriatrics. Dr. Regimbal treats patients with severe cardiovascular, neurological, gastrointestinal, respiratory, genitourinary, musculoskeletal and metabolic conditions. He also is an investigator in a number of clinical studies that focus on Alzheimer's Disease, diabetes, pneumonia, hypertension and more. Dr. Regimbal is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Swallowing Difficulty. He is also highly rated in 12 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Type 2 Diabetes (T2D), Peptic Ulcer, Stasis Dermatitis and Ulcers, and Necrosis. Dr. Regimbal is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.

    Experienced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Family Medicine
    Experienced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Family Medicine

    Franciscan Medical Clinic - Lakewood

    11307 Bridgeport Way SW, Suite 200, 
    Lakewood, WA 
     (1.4 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Dr. John Sashko provides health care for the whole family, from preventive care to acute and chronic conditions. He encourages his patients to take an active role in their health care, and strives to see patients the same day they call for an appointment. As a former pharmacist, Dr. Sashko embarked on his medical career in order to have a more active role in caring for patients.Dr. Sashko is a member of the American Academy of Family Medicine and the Pierce County Medical Society. A long-time resident of the Pacific hobbies include fly fishing and fly tying. Dr. Sashko is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Swallowing Difficulty. He is also highly rated in 14 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young, Familial Hypertension, Hypertension, and Glucocorticoid-Remediable Aldosteronism. Dr. Sashko is board certified in American Board Of Family Medicine.

    Experienced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Family Medicine | Sports Medicine
    Experienced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Family Medicine | Sports Medicine

    Franciscan Medical Clinic - University Place

    7210 40th Street W, 
    University Place, WA 
     (3.8 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Dr. Johnson's medical interests include all aspects of family and sports medicine. He believes that patient and physician must work together as a team to achieve optimal health. A thorough, compassionate evaluation and a rational treatment plan are the building blocks to a healthy, productive life.Dr. Johnson is a lifelong resident of the Northwest. He enjoys computers, sports and home remodeling. Dr. Johnson is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Swallowing Difficulty. He is also highly rated in 2 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Chronic Pain, Scrotal Swelling, Familial Hypertension, and Hypertension. Dr. Johnson is board certified in American Board Of Family Medicine and Certificate Of Added Qualifications (CAQ) In Sports Medicine.

    Experienced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Family Medicine
    Experienced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Family Medicine

    Franciscan Medical Clinic - University Place

    7210 40th Street W, 
    University Place, WA 
     (3.8 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Paul Schmidt, DO, provides primary care for families with special interest in pediatrics, sports medicine, women's health and osteopathic medicine. Drawn to medicine by the desire to help others, Dr. Schmidt pursues every avenue necessary to help each patient achieve optimal health and wellness. Dr. Schmidt also serves as the Peninsula High School team physician. Dr. Schmidt is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Swallowing Difficulty. He is also highly rated in 1 other condition, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Thrush, Tension Headache, Macroamylasemia, and Obesity in Children. Dr. Schmidt is board certified in American Board Of Family Medicine.

    Experienced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Family Medicine
    Experienced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Family Medicine

    Franciscan Medical Clinic - University Place

    7210 40th Street W, 
    University Place, WA 
     (3.8 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Joanna Polistico, MD, is a board-certified family medicine physician who cares for patients of all ages. Dr. Polistico believes that optimum health care is a right that everyone should have. Toward this end, she serves as a committed advocate for her patients' needs, working in partnership with her patients to offer up-to-date, evidence-based care and recommendations, and collaborating with specialty providers to whom they may be referred. She seeks to ensure her plan of care is fully understood so that patients may make informed health care decisions.Dr. Polistico is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians, American Medical Association and American Board of Family Medicine. Dr. Polistico is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Swallowing Difficulty. She is also highly rated in 10 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Osteoporosis, Postmenopausal Osteoporosis, Cirrhosis, and Familial Combined Hyperlipidemia. Dr. Polistico is board certified in American Board Of Family Medicine.

    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Internal Medicine
    Advanced in Swallowing Difficulty
    Internal Medicine

    Digestive Health Specialists - Waldron Endoscopy Center

    3209 S 23rd St Ste 350, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (5.5 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Michael Lee is an Internal Medicine provider practicing medicine in Tacoma, Washington. Dr. Lee is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Swallowing Difficulty. He is also highly rated in 29 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Childhood Volvulus, Portal Hypertension, Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, Gastrectomy, and Colonoscopy. Dr. Lee is currently accepting new patients.

    Showing 1-20 of 128

    Last Updated: 04/28/2026

    What is the definition of Swallowing Difficulty?

    Difficulty with swallowing is the feeling that food or liquid is stuck in the throat or at any point before the food enters the stomach. This problem is also called dysphagia.

    When should I see a Swallowing Difficulty doctor near Lakewood, WA?

    There are various reasons why you may want to see a specialist, such as: 

    • Your primary care provider recommends it. 
    • Your condition requires expert knowledge and specialized care. 
    • Your symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment. 
    • You need specialized testing or procedures. 
    • You want a second opinion.  

    What should I consider when choosing a Swallowing Difficulty doctor near Lakewood, WA?

    It’s important to see a provider with expertise in your specific condition. Each provider profile in MediFind’s doctor database includes information on which conditions they treat, years of experience, research contributions, languages spoken, insurance plans accepted, and more.  

    How does MediFind rank Swallowing Difficulty doctors near Lakewood, WA?

    MediFind’s rankings are based on a variety of data sources, such as the number of articles a doctor has published in medical journals, participation in clinical trials and industry conferences, as well as the number of patients that provider sees for a given condition. Note that MediFind’s provider database is not based on user reviews, and providers do not pay to be included in the database. 

    What types of insurance are accepted by Swallowing Difficulty doctors near Lakewood, WA?

    Most profiles in MediFind’s doctor database include a list of insurance plans accepted by that provider. However, it’s a good idea to contact the provider’s office to make sure they still accept your insurance, then doublecheck by contacting your insurance plan to confirm they’re in network. 

    How can I book an appointment online with a Swallowing Difficulty doctor near Lakewood, WA?

    MediFind offers direct scheduling for certain providers using the “Request Appointment” button on that provider’s profile. If the schedule option is not available for a provider, tap the red “Show Phone Number” button on their profile to get their contact information. If you prefer to find providers who offer online scheduling, select “Schedules online” under the “Availability” category of the filter feature on the left side of the Swallowing Difficulty doctor search results page. 

    Why is it important to get a second opinion from a different Swallowing Difficulty doctor?

    Second opinions are an opportunity to confirm a diagnosis and its root cause, learn about alternative treatment options, or simply gain peace of mind. Many people, especially those with serious diagnoses, get second opinions so they can understand all their options and make informed decisions, so don’t hesitate to get one if you have any doubts or need more information or clarification regarding your care. Note that some insurance plans require second opinions, while others don’t cover second opinions, so be sure to confirm with your insurance provider first.   

    How can I prepare for my appointment with a Swallowing Difficulty doctor near Lakewood, WA?

    Prepare for your appointment by gathering the following items: 

    • Copies of medical records (dating back at least one year) 
    • Your medical history, including illnesses, medical conditions, surgeries, and other doctors you see 
    • Family history of disease 
    • List of current prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal remedies or supplements including names and doses 
    • Allergies to medications, food, latex, insects, etc.  
    • List of questions and concerns 
    • Your insurance card 

    You might also contact the provider’s office to see if they offer transportation or childcare services or if you’re allowed to bring a loved one for support or to take notes during your visit. 

    What questions should I ask my Swallowing Difficulty doctor?

    Here are some sample questions: 

    • Can you explain in simple terms what this condition is and how it’s treated? 
    • What symptoms or side effects should I watch for? 
    • What tests will be involved, and when can I expect results? 
    • Are there other specialists I need to see? 
    • What’s the best way to reach you if I have follow-up questions? 

    How can I learn about the latest clinical trials and research advances my Swallowing Difficulty doctor may know about?

    MediFind’s Clinical Trials tool asks you a series of questions to help you narrow down your search by health condition, age, gender, location, how far you’re willing to travel, and more. Each question you answer filters down the number of trials until you find the ones that are most relevant to you. 

    MediFind’s Latest Advances tool features summaries of recent articles published in medical journals. We use cutting-edge technology to scour medical publication databases for the latest research advancements on any given condition, then we simplify this information in a way that’s useful and easy to understand. 

    Can I filter my search to show male or female Swallowing Difficulty doctors near Lakewood, WA?

    Look for the filter feature on the left side of the Swallowing Difficulty doctor search results page. Select “Female” or “Male” under the “Gender” category to search for female or male providers exclusively. If the “Any” option is selected, it will pull results for both male and female providers. 

    Can I filter my search to find a Swallowing Difficulty doctor that offers video calls?

    Look for the filter feature on the left-side of the Swallowing Difficulty doctor search results page. Select “Offers telehealth visits” under the Availability category to search for providers who offer virtual appointments (video calls). 

    Reviewed on: 11/11/24  

    By: MediFind Medical Staff 

    Read more about our Content Policy