Welcome to Optimorthopedics. Your first visit to Optimorthopedics is important and can be most effective if you plan ahead. The following checklist will help you and your doctor discuss the important issues for getting the most out of the visit.
How to Get Here
Click here for maps/directions to each location.
What to Bring
- Patient registration forms: If you have not received these in the mail, please click here to download them now. You will need to fill them out and bring them with you to your appointment.
- Insurance card(s) and a photo ID: If the appointment is for a minor, you will need to provide the legal guardian's insurance card(s) and photo ID.
- Medical records: Please bring relevant medical records from other physicians; results and copies of X-rays; and other imaging studies and lab tests and bring these items with you to your appointment.
- Written lists of: Medications, herbs, vitamin supplements and over-the-counter medications you are taking.
- Your concerns: Be prepared to bring any questions or concerns about your condition (pains, loss of mobility or function) to discuss with your physician.
- A family member or friend: Consider asking a friend or family member to accompany you if you need any assistance in walking, using the restroom or filling out paperwork.
- Translator: If you need a translator, ask another adult to come with you; don't rely on a child to translate.
- Questions: Take the time to make a list of anything you may want to ask your physician regarding your condition. Click here for questions to ask at the visit or later, if your doctor recommends surgery.
- Comfortable Clothes: Your condition may involve X-rays. Wear loose clothing that's easy to take off and put on.
At the Doctor's Office:
- Arrive at least 20 minutes early so you can complete the Patient Registration forms if you have not already done so. You may complete the forms before arriving by downloading the Patient Registration forms here.
- Be honest and complete when talking with your doctor. Share your point of view and don't hold back information about issues such as incontinence, memory loss, sex or other issues that you might consider embarrassing.
- Take notes if you need to on what the doctor tells you, and ask questions if you don't understand a medical term, the reason for the doctor's recommendations or the instructions for taking medication.
- Ask what to expect from your treatment, what effect it will have on your daily activities and what you can do to prevent further disability.
- Ask your doctor for handouts or brochures that you and your family members can review at home. Your doctor may refer you to this website for more information.
- Optimorthopedics has established a list of Patient Guidelines for the mutual benefit and understanding of our patients and physicians. You will be provided with a copy of these guidelines at your first appointment.
When You Get Home
- Review the materials the doctor gave you. If you can't remember something, or if you don't understand your notes, call the office and speak to a member of your health care team.
- Follow the doctor's instructions. Take the full course of medication and make sure you follow the prescribed diet or exercise routine. Remember, you're a part of your health care team too.
- Keep your doctor informed of any changes in your condition.
- Follow up with your doctor on test results, adverse reactions to medication, or any complications or worsening of your condition.