If you have symptoms of an orthopedic condition, visiting an orthopedic doctor is the first step to getting diagnosis and treatment. Many people avoid seeing an orthopedist because they worry about the potential cost of treatment, but with insurance your orthopedic doctor visit cost should be very manageable. In addition, seeing an orthopedist soon after you are injured will prevent your condition from worsening and requiring more expensive treatment later on.

When to Visit an Orthopedist

You should visit an orthopedist when you start to have symptoms of an orthopedic problem. If you have severe pain, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, or signs of a broken bone, you should see a doctor or go to urgent care or the emergency room right away.

Most of the time, pain and other symptoms develop more slowly and are less dramatic, which can make it harder to know when to see an orthopedist. It is never normal to experience pain on a regular basis. If you have had pain for longer than a few days, or if your symptoms are getting progressively worse as the days pass, you should contact an orthopedist for an appointment.

Expected Orthopedic Doctor Visit Cost

Your orthopedic doctor visit cost should be covered by your insurance, so the biggest factor that determines your out-of-pocket costs is the terms of your insurance plan. If you have a low deductible and a low copay, you may pay little or nothing out of pocket. Those with a higher deductible and copay may pay a more significant amount; however, the cost of the initial visit should still be manageable.

At the appointment, the doctor is likely to order further diagnostic testing and treatment. These tend to be more expensive than the initial cost of seeing a doctor, and some people need financing to help manage their costs if they have a high deductible.

What to Expect at Your Consultation

At your first appointment with your doctor, the doctor’s goal is to get an idea of what is causing your symptoms and decide whether further testing is needed. Usually, the doctor will prescribe an initial course of treatment to help get your symptoms under control. You can expect the doctor to ask you questions about your symptoms and to perform a physical examination. You may be sent to get x-rays or other diagnostic imaging. You may leave the office with a prescription and with a follow-up appointment scheduled.

Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to meet with you about your orthopedic health. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.