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What Is an Orthopedic Surgeon?
An orthopedic surgeon is a medical doctor who specializes in the treatment of the musculoskeletal system. This system includes bones, joints, muscles, and any related painful conditions.
11 of the Indiana Hand to Shoulder Center physicians are orthopedic surgeons who specialize in the upper extremity. 1 is a Plastic Surgeon who did an orthopedic upper extremity fellowship.
What Is an Arthroscopic Surgery?
Arthroscopic surgery is a modern method of performing surgery inside the joint through very small incisions. The incisions are usually about a quarter of an inch in length with two or three incisions per joint necessary.
A video camera is attached to the end of a long, thin microscope, which is placed through the incision. Other long, thin, motorized instruments are used to perform surgery inside joints.
Arthroscopic surgery is commonly performed on the wrist, elbow, and shoulder.
What Does the Term Total Joint Replacement mean?
Total joint replacement means replacing both sides of the weight-bearing surfaces of the affected joint.
Diseased joints of the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder can be replaced with artificial implants.
Do You Offer Translation Services?
For patients who do not speak English, we offer translation services in many languages. For patients who are hearing impaired we also offer video interpreting services.
Simply make us aware that you will need these services when you schedule your appointment so we can accommodate your needs.
We offer this service free of charge to our patients. We will not, however, pay for the services of any translators who you may bring with you to your appointment.
What Should I Bring to My Appointment?
- Your insurance card or other health coverage information. Please be aware that many insurance carriers require you to have a referral (authorization from your primary care physician) before treatment is provided by a specialist, such as an orthopedist. Check with your insurance carrier if you have any questions about your plan or coverage.
- Referral form if required by your health insurance plan.
- List of all medications (both over-the-counter and prescription) including doses and how often you take them.
- Any X-rays or MRIs that have been taken (not older than six months) for this condition only.
- Clinic notes or operative reports from your referring physician (that relate to the condition for which you are seeking medical consultation from our physician).
- Driver’s License and/or government-issued ID.
Should you have any general questions before your visit please feel free to contact us at (317) 875-9105 or (800) 888-HAND, and we will be happy to assist you.
How Do I Know if I Need a Referral for My Upcoming Visit?
You should refer to your primary care physician and insurance company for any needed referral information. Your insurance company representative can help you determine if a referral is needed and your family physician can generate the necessary paperwork to ensure your visit is pre-authorized. All referral arrangements should be completed before your first visit.
What Happens if I Need My Physician After Hours?
Emergencies arise occasionally when our patients need to contact our physicians regarding pain or other symptoms. Our clinic always has physicians “on call” in case of after-hours emergencies. If you need to contact an Indiana Hand to Shoulder Center physician when the clinic is closed (after-hours or on weekends), please call (317) 875-9105 and the on-call physician will contact you.
For non-emergency prescriptions or prescription refills, please contact your pharmacy and they will contact us directly. Medications will not be refilled at night or on weekends.
How Do I Request Medical Records and Information?
Download/print the Authorization to Release Medical Information Form
What Information Will Be Included in the Release of Medical Information?
Our standard release of information includes the following:
- Physician’s dictated and hand-written notes
- Therapist’s dictated notes
- Copy of X-ray(s)
Who Should I Contact at the Indiana Hand to Shoulder Center if I Have a General Question?
Our switchboard operators are available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday at (317) 875-9105 or (800) 888-HAND. After dialing (317) 875-9105 or (800) 888-HAND, press option #0, and our switchboard attendant will be happy to direct your call to the appropriate person.
Which Insurance Does the Indiana Hand to Shoulder Center Accept?
We accept most insurance plans. For specific questions regarding your insurance, please call (317) 875-9105 or (800) 888-HAND.