How To Find A Surgeon

These resources can help you ask the right questions so you can find a good surgeon:

Choosing Your Hemodialysis Vascular Access
2-page article (pages 6-7) explains how to ask for a referral to a vascular surgeon, where to find a surgeon who has made a lot of fistulas, and how to ask for a second opinion. Includes a list of questions to bring to an office visit with a surgeon. From NKF's Family Focus newsletter.

Kidney School Module 8 - Vascular Access: A Lifeline for Dialysis
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Illustrated, 27-page module offers advice on improving your chance of having a fistula, which includes asking your doctor to recommend a good vascular surgeon. From Life Options' Kidney School (MEI).

In Control (Vol. 1, No. 1: Fistulas)
4-page patient newsletter section covers how to find a vascular surgeon with a lot of fistula experience, gives self-advocacy tips, and talks about getting educated about fistulas, asking questions, and taking control. From Life Options (MEI).