Find and Book Pulmonologists Near Me in San Antonio, TX
There are 134 Pulmonologists in San Antonio, TX and 32% of those with reviews are rated 4-star or higher. Some of the most common clinical focuses include Obstructive Lung Disease, Interstitial Lung Disease and Respiratory Tract Conditions. Popular hospitals in the area include Methodist Hospital, Baptist Medical Center and University Hospital - University Health System.
Physicians participating in the referral service program have chosen to participate, are in good standing at our hospitals, have not paid a fee, are credentialed to perform the service you have requested and are accepting new patients in their practice. They do not have a financial interest in another hospital in this area and are not employed by or have an ownership interest in a competitive health care system. Physicians who are employed or engaged by an HCA affiliated physician practice or offering online appointment scheduling are referred first with others referred on a randomized basis to match your individual needs with consideration for the preferences you have expressed.
San Antonio, as with other cities in Texas, struggles to combat obesity in adults and children. To that end, San Antonio is home to 3 healthcare systems that are high-performing in treating heart failure and colon cancer. The two main healthcare systems are Methodist Health and Baptist Health. For children’s healthcare, there are several options, including Methodist Children’s Hospital, a 202-bed facility.
San Antonio’s Top-Rated Facilities
U.S. News ranks Methodist Hospital #1 in San Antonio. Methodist Hospital has 811 licensed beds and 32 operating suites. Methodist Hospital is high-performing in 11 procedures and conditions, including:
Heart Failure
Heart Attack
U.S. News ranks Baptist Medical Center #2 in San Antonio. Baptist Health received a Leapfrog Hospital Grade A Safety Rating at all 6 of its hospitals. Baptist Medical Center is high-performing in nine procedures and conditions, including:
Pulmonologists perform several tests, including imaging tests used to diagnose and understand the respiratory issues you are experiencing. These tests include:
blood tests: tests used to check your blood’s oxygen levels
bronchoscopy: a device that looks inside your lungs and airways
chest ultrasound: imaging that examines the organs and structures in your chest
CT scans: diagnostic images of your lungs and respiratory system
spirometry: a test that measures how well your lungs work
In addition to testing and imaging, a pulmonologist performs several procedures that can help improve the function of your lungs. Some common procedures include:
airway ablation: a procedure that opens blocked air passages
biopses: the collection of a tissue sample for disease screening
pulmonary hygiene: a procedure that clears fluid and mucus buildup from your lungs
When should I go to a pulmonologist?
For many minor concerns or symptoms of the respiratory system, you’ll receive care from your primary care physician (PCP). Your PCP will usually refer you to a pulmonologist if you’re experiencing the following:
a cough that regularly produces blood or mucus
a persistent or worsening cough
difficulty breathing
unexplained weight loss
Depending on the severity of your symptoms, a pulmonologist may refer you to a pulmonary surgeon who specializes in treating your condition.
What can I expect during my first pulmonologist appointment?
A typical first visit to a pulmonologist begins with a physical exam. Your doctor will likely ask questions about your medical history, condition, and any symptoms you’re experiencing.
Depending on your symptoms, your pulmonologist may recommend blood work, imaging, or other diagnostic tests. You can also expect them to discuss your treatment plan, including some procedures and their associated benefits or risks.
What questions should I ask my pulmonologist?
It’s important to feel prepared when you go to your pulmonologist appointment. To help you get started, we’ve created a list of good questions for you to ask during your appointment:
Are there any tests you recommend?
What’s my diagnosis?
What’s causing my symptoms or making them worse?
How often should I be screened for my condition?
Are there any medications that can help manage my condition?
What are the next steps in my treatment?
Should I limit my physical activities?
In addition to asking questions, there are several things you can do to get the most out of your pulmonologist appointment:
Bring a detailed account of your recent medical history, including the medications you take.
Write down your symptoms, when they started, and how they’ve progressed.
Track activities that make your symptoms better or worse.
Ask a friend or family member to accompany you to your appointment.
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