Finding an excellent doctor is a tough task. It’s certainly a challenge to find someone who is highly qualified and who also has a comforting andsupportive rapport with patients. It’s one of the most important relationships you’re ever going to have, so it’s crucial for you to feel comfortable. If you find yourself looking for a new doctor, there are a number of steps to take to find the right physician.
1.) Use the computer-
One of the easiest and fastest ways to find a physician is to search the Internet. Simply type in the keywords “doctor” and “physician” near your address using the online yellow pages or a mapping website. Once the list of names appears, notice if there are any positive user comments attached to each one and then conduct an individual search for each name on your list. Or, if you would like to utilize a specific database of doctors, check out the American Medical Association’s website and use the “Doctor Finder” service to find doctors (listed by specialty) who practice near you. Once you have a list of possible candidates, check with your insurance company to see if your visit will be fully covered. Or, if you don’t have access to a computer, call your local hospital and ask them for a recommendation. Explain the situation to the operator and he or she will transfer you to the right department.
2.) Word of mouth-
If you are not comfortable with a random search, ask trusted family members, colleagues, and friends for referrals. Talk to your friends about specific experiences with the physicians and discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the doctors being recommended, too.
3.) Plan for interviews-
Once you have a specific name, call the prospective office and schedule an interview to see if a doctor’s ideas and philosophies about medicine and
treatments match your beliefs. For example, some doctors choose to prescribe medications for everything while others choose a more holistic approach. This will help you decide if this is the right doctor for you. Some other factors to consider during the interview process are: whether the office is definitely accepting new patients, the average wait in getting an appointment, the demeanor and competence of reception and scheduling staff, which hospitals the doctor is affiliated with, office hours, the availability of evening and weekend appointments, the doctor’s gender, how prescriptions are generally filled, whether the doctor speaks multiple languages, the background of the doctor, and whether or not the practice is board certified. This last factor is extremely important. Many people just assume that each doctor’s office is automatically board certified, but that is not always the case. In addition, you should also ask about what doctor will care for you should you be hospitalized or if there are covering doctors if the main physician is on vacation.
4.) Record keeping-
While you are in the doctor’s office, pay attention to how medical records are kept. If a doctor’s records are disorganized, this is a sign of sloppiness and inattention to detail. Also, take note if the doctor’s office takes electronic notes. Many offices have switched over to this method of record keeping. If prefer an office that is progressive and changes with the times, this may be a big factor in your decision making process.
5.) Check out the hours and the friendliness of the office staff-
Families today are busier than ever and are usually rushing from one activity to the next. If your family needs an office with flexible hours (such as weekend and early evening appointments), this is an important question to ask during the interview process. Also, notice how the office staff handles patient requests and questions. If you’re a new mom with a lot of questions about infant care, you would like a doctor who is willing and able to address all of your concerns and questions.
6.) Location and the type of practice–
How far you are willing to travel to see the right doctor? If you have received a terrific recommendation from a trusted friend, maybe it’s worth the trip an hour each way to see someone you’re comfortable with. However, if you have young children and are looking for convenience, it might be a better idea to find someone who is close to the house and can take your child at a moment’s notice for a sick visit. What type of practice you are looking for? Are you looking for a large multi-physician office for convenience or a solo practice which can provide more personalized attention? Multi-practice offices may offer more hours, but you may not always be able to see your doctor of choice. Solo practices allow for a lot of personal attention, but the office will probably not be open as much. These are both important factors to consider during the selection process.
7.) Go with your gut—
Even with many positive recommendations and lots of Internet research, sometimes the best way to choose a physician is to simply go with your gut and your first instinct. During the interview session, how comfortable did you feel with the doctor and his philosophies? Did he really listen to all of your questions? Did you find his responses to be intelligent and informative? Did he seem distracted while he was speaking to you? If you have any doubt that the doctor you spoke with is not the right one for you, trust your feelings and continue your search until you find the right fit.
There are many ways to find the right doctor for you and your family. Referrals and research both play a large role in selecting a trustworthy physician. Ultimately, the way you feel when you meet with a doctor one-on-one will be the best indicator of how it would feel to become his or her patient. Once you know that, you’ll be on your way to establishing a successful doctor-patient relationship.
Since 1993, Dr. Young has worked to help create beautiful smiles for his patients. Dr. Young uses his training and skills to help transform a patient’s appearance. He thoroughly enjoys being able to assist in boosting a person’s morale.
Dr. Young, who was voted “Top Orthodontist” by his peers in the New Jersey Monthly poll of dentists 2009-2010, works on patients of all ages, although most are primarily adolescents, and sees approximately 70-100 people per day. The office strongly believes that early intervention and treatment are the keys to long-term dental health. In some cases, treatment can be started before all permanent teeth have come in.
Once the course of action has been determined, patients can enjoy many advantages with straighter teeth including: healthier gums, easier cleaning,
improved chewing and speech, decreased risk of dental trauma and abnormal wear, and finally, a more beautiful smile.
Dr. Young, who is also a teaching instructor at Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch and is a member of the Regional Cleft Palate Center, encourages open communication with the patients. Patients and their families are able to ask many questions about the best dental care options. The main goal is to make the patient feel as comfortable as possible.
Many parents ask, “What is the best age to start orthodontic treatment for my child?”
“The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have a screening by an orthodontist by age seven,” says Dr. Young. “At this age, most orthodontic problems can be diagnosed by your orthodontist. On the Braces @ Brick website (www.braces@brick.com), there is a special section called, ‘Is Early Treatment Worthwhile?’ This section explains the reasons why being proactive is imperative. I am a strong advocate of early orthodontic treatment. Diagnosis and early treatment is the key. Starting treatment early has the following benefits: treatment is usually less complicated, it eliminates the need for extraction of permanent teeth, and kids do not go through and awkward phase, where they are ashamed to smile because of their crooked teeth or overbite. It is much better for their self-esteem growing up. We can finish most cases before high school. The most important advantage of early treatment is that the stability of the final result is much better.”
Another frequently asked question by parents is, “How do I know if my child needs braces?”
“If your family dentist has not suggested it, but you notice that your child’s teeth are crooked, spaced, there’s an overbite, or generally don’t look right, you should see your orthodontist,” says Dr. Young. “In our office, there is no charge for an initial consultation, at any age.”
Finally, one of the most popular questions asked by parents is, “Do I need a referral from my dentist?”
“A referral is not necessary,” says Dr. Young. “Just call the office for a complimentary consultation.”
Dr. Young loves the opportunity to help his patients, especially the teenage crowd. And, when his younger patients take an active role in their treatment by honoring their appointments and demonstrating good dental health habits, the office will offer reward incentives. Dr. Young wants to work together as a team with his patients and really appreciates when the kids listen to his advice about taking charge of their dental health. He understands that being a young person today can be extremely difficult and that sometimes his assistance can go a long way to making the child have a better overall outlook.
“I enjoy what I do and working with the kids,” says Dr. Young. “They really appreciate what we can do for them.”
For more information about
Braces @ Brick, check out the office’s website at www.bracesatbrick.com or call 732-477-1808.
By Tricia Berwick
Drs. Warner’s Patients Speak Out About Extraordinary Results
Walking through the doors of the Chiropractic Center for Prenatal, Infant, and Family Wellness, parents are met with newfound optimism regarding their children’s health outlook. Prior to coming, many parents have a lack of awareness or misinformation about the important role pediatric chiropractors play in keeping the nervous system and the immune system healthy in children. Then, the parents and children listen to Drs. Stuart and Theresa Warner, pediatric chiropractors, international lecturers and co-founders and directors of the Point Pleasant practice, their children begin treatments, and their health dramatically begins to improve. The office’s main philosophy is that regular chiropractic care is the best way to give them an advantage and keep kids healthy and strong, without the use of medications.
Michele Lassiter’s daughter, Abigail began care with the Drs. Warner in October of last year. After countless visits to the pediatrician, an allergist, and a pulmonologist for a reactive airway (asthma for toddlers), Abigail finally started to feel better after only a few weeks of chiropractic care.
“Now Abigail is a beautifully, healthy little girl,” says Lassiter. “At one point, she was on three or four medications at the same time, and now she doesn’t need to take anything. There is just such a big difference in her health and in her overall personality due to Drs. Warner’s help. She is far less jittery and anxious and is a completely happy four-year-old who plays soccer and goes to school.”
Lassiter admits that at the beginning, she was a little apprehensive about her daughter seeing a chiropractor at such a young age. She wasn’t quite sure how the Drs. Warner could help her daughter to feel better. But, after an initial consultation and gathering more information, she decided that it was
worth a try.
“I just assumed chiropractors fixed back pain,” says Lassiter who has become a patient of the Drs. Warner herself. “I never thought about how chiropractic treatment could improve one’s health. Now, I don’t get sinus headaches anymore. There has been a marked difference in how healthy we all are, including my husband, too.”
Jennifer Bellhorn and her two children, Alexis and Aaron have also been patients for almost a year. Alexis had battled chronic colds and coughs for years with no real lasting results from medical care. Then after suffering from a severe and painful ear infection, Bellhorn decided to take her daughter to see the Drs. Warner.
“It was so bad at one point, Alexis had almost complete loss of hearing in one ear which was quite scary,” says Bellhorn. “We were at the pediatrician’s office once a week and then we were referred to an ENT doctor (ear, nose and throat). We just couldn’t get the ear infection under control. I was completely at my wit’s end. I felt so badly for my daughter. I just wanted to help her. The Warners’ children went to my daughter’s school and after talking to them, I decided to bring her in to be examined. At first, I didn’t think a chiropractor would be able to help, but I was ready to try anything at that point.”
After two months of Drs. Warner’s care, Bellhorn noticed a significant difference in the overall health of her child.
“Alexis has not been to the pediatrician for a sick visit since December,” says Bellhorn. “Now, she rarely gets headaches and is very healthy. Alexis remembers how sick she used to get and knows that she doesn’t want to feel that way again. She loves going for her visits to see the Drs. Warner and understands that this is what helped boost her immune system and will continue to help her in the future.”
Rafaelina Walker’s six-year-old son, Christian also suffered from severe asthma and allergies for a number of years. After reading about the Drs. Warner and their practice in Your Child Today magazine, Walker decided to take her son for an evaluation. During the third week of chiropractic care, she noticed an improvement in her son’s health and took him off of his many medications. However, even with immediate results, it took her family awhile to accept what was happening with her son.
“Our friends and family members had never heard of a chiropractor treating children,” says Walker. ‘They kept asking me if I was going to get a second opinion. My family was very worried about Christian especially since he was going to be outside at camp this past summer. However, he didn’t need any breathing treatments or medications all summer. This is normally a very rough time of the year for Christian. In the past, he would be sick with pneumonia or bronchitis. But for the first time, he’s not sick during this time of the year and he hasn’t missed any school or soccer games yet.”
After getting through the summer and beginning a new school year illness-free, Walker’s family has changed its opinions about what chiropractors can do for children.
“My family thinks it’s great now,” says Walker. “My husband was very skeptical at first, but now the whole family benefits. It has helped me a lot. The treatments are not uncomfortable at all; in fact they are very relaxing and feel great! I even went to get adjusted after I sprained my ankle. I have had such a positive experience with the Drs. Warner that I want to tell all of my friends about them. My son was on medication since he was six-weeks-old. I wish someone had told me sooner about how they can help children become medication-free.”
All of these patients firmly believe that receiving regular chiropractic care is directly related to boosting one’s immunity and preserving good health for everyone in their families. If you would like more information about the Chiropractic Center for Prenatal, Infant, and Family Wellness, or to be placed on their new patient waiting list call 732-295-0707.
Quick Tips so Halloween Spooks don’t Turn to BooHoos
Tips from the Experts at Ocean Medical Center
Halloween is a favorite holiday among many children. Not only do they get to dress up in fun costumes, but they also get to knock their way around neighborhoods, collecting as much candy and treats as they can. As fun and exciting a holiday as it is, parents must be aware of the dangers that can also present themselves.
According to Khoshnood Ahmad, M.D., medical director of Ocean Medical Center’s Pediatric Emergency Center in Brick, “Halloween related injuries are typically from running around the neighborhood and tripping over costumes, usually resulting in scrapes and bumps.”
While the doctors and nurses at the Pediatric Emergency Center are ready to treat children in need, they would
much rather see youngsters have a safe and enjoyable holiday. They offer the following tips for parents to keep
their kids injury free:
• If your child is wearing a mask, be sure that the eyeholes
are big enough to see out of.
• Make sure that long dresses or capes are not too long, as
they could cause a risk for tripping.
• When dealing with props, a safe rule of thumb is this:
if the child fell on the object and could be seriously
injured, it is not safe to carry.
• All costumes should be light reflecting and fire retardant.
Dr. Ahmad also offers the following tips for general safety during trick-or-treating:
• Take a flashlight if going out during dusk or night.
Use colorful glow sticks as another fun option to
make kids more visible.
• Young children should be accompanied by an adult, and
if allowing older kids to go unaccompanied, they should
be with a group of friends.
• Cross at designated cross walks and don’t run
between parked cars.
• Stay on sidewalks.
• Remember to check each piece of candy that your child
brings home and do not let them eat any candy that has
been opened or looks like it has been tampered with.
Most importantly, enjoy the holiday with your children. Remember to have fun while also being aware of the dangers and keeping your children safe.
For more information about Ocean’s Pediatric Emergency Center or the full range of resources and specialists affiliated with Meridian Pediatric Network, visit www.OceanMedicalCenter.com.
At Bosonac Orthodontics in Brick, your healthy and beautiful smile is the practice’s top priority. From the minute you walk into the office, you will
immediately notice a welcoming and caring atmosphere. At “The New Jersey Sea of Smiles,” Drs. Stephen and Brian Bosonac will provide outstanding orthodontic care while using the most advanced techniques available, including Invisalign “invisible” braces, traditional metal braces, Series 2000 appliance, and even treatment without braces.
The office prides itself on educating patients about all of the possibilities available in the field of orthodontics. The doctors feel it is very important to provide patients with as much information as possible so they know exactly what to expect during the course of treatment. The first step is to have an examination which will determine the orthodontic needs of the patient. In some cases, x-rays and digital photographs may be utilized in a consultation. After recommendations are made, Drs. Stephen and Brian Bosonac will answer all of the patient’s questions and address any concerns.
In addition to speaking with the doctors directly, patients can also browse through the office’s website (www.bosonacortho.com) which provides detailed information in a variety of subject areas. For example, patients can learn more about the doctors and their extensive training and affiliations. Take a few minutes to read through the policies of the office staff so you’ll know exactly what is involved regarding payment options and scheduling appointments. You can even look through extensive photos of the office and view pictures of before-and-after results in the “Patient Gallery.” This is a terrific opportunity for patients to see the work of Drs. Stephen and Brian Bosonac and what they can do for you, too.
Under “Ortho 101” patients can gather information for adults and children and even skim through a glossary of terms in the “ortho-dictionary.” Sometimes, the initial consultation can be an overwhelming experience; a lot of information is given and there may be follow-up questions. This link on 
the office’s website is a great feature because it explains all of the terminology in full detail. For example, an appliance is anything your orthodontist attaches to your teeth which moves your teeth or changes the shape of your jaw. Even if your head is swirling with lots of information after your first visit, all of your questions can be answered with one quick click of the mouse. Another interesting link is the “Oral Care Video” which is comprised of sixteen video segments. During this informative piece, patients can learn about what to expect and how to care for orthodontic appliances. Some of the topics covered include: proper brushing, caring for retainers and appliances, flossing techniques, minor emergencies, relief of discomfort and more. This is an excellent way to gain an understanding of the type of treatment available, all in the comfort of your own home.
If you are in need of orthodontic care and are looking
for a team of caring and experienced orthodontists,
call Bosonac Orthodontics at 732-920-0888 or view
their website at www.bosonacortho.com.
What Is NeuroCore Therapy? Dr. Stiso, a NeuroCore Clinician located in Manasquan NJ, explains NeuroCore Therapy is a form of EEG Biofeedback (AKA: Neurofeedback) It is a drugless approach to treating Neurological Dysregulation Syndrome (NDS) that may be associated with the symptoms of many neurological based conditions such as ADHD, Asperger’s, Tics and even Autism.
“I was immediately fascinated by NeuroCore Therapy ever since attending a symposium in Hilton Head, SC,” explains Dr. Stiso. “The science has been around for forty years, but until recently, it has only been available in large University laboratories. So far the results have been amazing! Coming from an entire family of chiropractic physicians our offices have seen thousands of patients. And over the years there have been many new technologies and therapies to come along, but nothing compares to this.”
By using a computerized EEG (Electroencephalogram), electrical impulses known as brainwaves can be tracked and analyzed while the patient performs several different tasks such as reading or watching TV. Ideally, the brain should switch between different brainwaves frequencies. However if the brain cannot produce the needed brainwave it will use an alternate, less efficient wave to get the job done. It is like taking the long country road to get to the store instead of the highway. Effective, but not efficient. Over time this inefficient wave becomes dominant causing changes in outward behavior.
ADD/ADHD: When you perform a task, like making breakfast, your brain should produce a fast brainwave (Beta wave) to keep you focused and allow for quick neurologic communication within the brain. However, in an ADD/ADHD child, slow brainwaves (Theta waves) are used when performing a task. Drugs like Ridalin and Aderol artificially elevate Beta waves for a short period of time. However these drugs are derived from Cocaine and, over time, can have serious adverse effects.
How Does It Work? During a typical training session sensors are placed on the scalp and brainwave activity is monitored by a NeuroCore computer. Next, a DVD will begin playing on the computer screen. The child is told to concentrate on the movie. If the correct brainwaves are produced the movie will play; if the mind starts to wander, the movie will pause. This protocol is repeated with video games, music, jigsaw puzzles and tactile stimulation (vibrating lounge chair). As the brain learns it becomes stronger and more efficient. This is called neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to adapt and open new neural pathways allowing for more efficient lines of communication. Similar to riding a bike, once the changes take place, the effects are permanent.
To learn more visit www.BrainCoreTherapy.com or (732)528-7746 to set up a free consultation.
In today’s fast-paced society, finding a doctor’s office that has flexible hours is of utmost importance to parents. Pediatric Affiliates, which specializes in infants, children and adolescent medicine, is a place where kids of all ages and developmental stages can have access to healthcare, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Thanks to multiple facilities, extended hours, and a multi-lingual staff, appointments can be made for during the day, evenings, and even on weekends, 365 days a year to meet the needs of today’s active families. This is a tremendous benefit for those families who have hectic schedules filled with school assignments, sports practices, and music lessons.
Pediatric Affiliates began forty years ago with one office in Toms River. Since its inception, the practice has expanded immensely and now serves patients
in five other facilities in Monmouth and Ocean counties. Principal owners Robert Shanik, M.D., F.A.A.P. and Ira Haimowitz, D.O., F.A.A.P. are proud of the practice’s growth and its long-standing reputation. What sets Pediatric Affiliates apart from other offices is their dedication to patients. One of the practice’s top priorities is providing one-on-one communication for its patients. Pediatric Affiliates’ philosophy is that their patients deserve personal attention. Therefore, questions and concerns from patients can always be answered, even after office hours.
The office of Pediatric Affiliates is comprised of 16 physicians and numerous nurse practitioners and physician assistants. Having such a large staff allows the practice to accommodate many patients and to provide flexible hours. One of the best features of Pediatric Affiliates is that the practice is completely self-contained. Patients never have to worry about seeing a doctor they do not know. Having this familiarity with the doctors is verycomforting for the patients of Pediatric Affiliates.
During a visit to the office, parents can expect to receive age appropriate information about their child’s developmental milestones, such as crawling, walking and the mastery of speech. The staff tracks patients though their medical records and will supply parents with handouts and information when it is pertinent. If parents have any concerns about their child’s development, they are encouraged to ask questions during office visits. In addition, the staff will keep parents aware of when to bring their child in for timely physical examinations and other services, such as immunizations. It’s important for parents to be actively involved in their child’s healthcare, as they are a key component in a child’s developmental progress.
Pediatric Affiliates has many convenient Shore area locations to choose from, including: River Avenue in Lakewood, 732-367-3700; Madison Avenue in Lakewood, 732-364-7770; Toms River, 732-341-0720; Manahawkin, 609-597-6200; Howell, 732-905-9166; and Brick, 732-458-0010. Day, evening, and weekend appointments are available and most insurance plans are accepted.
The Foot & Ankle Center is pleased to be providing excellent compassionate podiatric care in Ocean County for the past 10 years. Our doctors and staff have strived to maintain clean, friendly facilities that are accessible 5 days per week. Extended hours are available to accommodate work schedules and weekend appointments are also available.
We specialize in many problems that young children have with their feet and/or ankles. Like warts ( most common pediatric foot problem) , flat feet, sports injuries, ingrown toenails, heel pain.
Dr. Killian and Dr. Paukovitz are board certified in foot surgery and are thoroughly trained in all aspects of podiatric care. We offer the most up-to-date treatment for all foot and ankle problems including skin and nail infections, ulcers, ingrown nails, nail fungus, bunions, hammertoes, heel pain (plantar fascitis), arthritis, neuropathy and neuromas (pain in the ball of the foot), as well as sprains and injuries of the foot and ankle.
As your physician our goal is not only to help you or your child back to health, but to educate you and help you to make the best choices you can regarding you or your families foot health care.
Dr. Killian and Dr. Paukovitz are on staff at Community Medical Center and the Surgery Centers of Toms River.
The Foot & Ankle Center is pleased to participate with most insurances including Medicare, BCBS.Oxford/United and many others. Please contact Anne at 732-557-4266 to discuss your insurance coverage and to schedule your appointment.
Dentistry For Children, Adolescents
And The Handicapped
Dr. Francis H. Costello is the sole practitioner in his specialized practice treating the dental needs of children, adolescents and the handicapped. Dr. Costello is a graduate of the New Jersey College of Medicine and Dentistry. He went on to get his specialty degree in pediatric dentistry at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children in Philadelphia.
Before settling in his Toms River office on a full time basis, Dr. Costello taught pediatric dentistry for ten years at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children
and Temple Dental School in Philadelphia.
In addition to Dr. Costello, the office boasts an energetic. experienced and dedicated support staff. The lead dental assistant and front desk receptionist have each been with Dr. Costello for over ten years, caring for the dental needs of the children and their families in his practice.
The office is conveniently located on the river in downtown Toms River, NJ. We work with most dental plans and new patients are always welcome. For more information or to make an appointment.
Goodie bags stuffed with cool prizes, creative crafts, fun games for all of the kids, and lots of yummy treats. For the past ten years, this has been Yvonne Sirisky’s formula for hosting festive and memorable birthday celebrations for her three sons ages 10, 7 and 4. Her parties always have a theme, whether it’s sports, a popular television show, or favorite kids’ characters. Over the years, many friends and family members have complimented Sirisky for her creativity and enthusiasm in planning these parties for her children. In fact, this busy mom of three has received so much positive feedback that she recently felt compelled to start her own business. After some careful consideration, “Yvonne’s Theme Parties—Specializing in Children’s Parties and Bingo” was launched last spring.
