Dislocations, hernia, impingement, minor sprains, and aches to complex fractures; orthopedic injuries can hit at any time. It could be from an accident or trauma to the body, common in athletes. When it happens, most people rush to the emergency room. While that’s commendable, considering the potential concerns if the injury goes unattended, it isn’t always the most effective solution.
It would be best if orthopedic doctors attended to you. Whether the injury occurred on the playing field, at home, or on the job, visiting an orthopedic urgent care center is recommendable. Let’s look at the top advantages of urgent orthopedic care over the ER to help you make an informed decision.
Prompt attention
Visiting the ER, especially in populated regions, means long waits. You’ll spend some time in the waiting room before being attended by the doctor. This is, especially as they prioritize life-threatening emergencies. These rooms can be a hotspot for germs, especially during the flu season, putting you at risk as you wait. The orthopedic urgent care services prioritize orthopedic emergencies, meaning that you won’t have to wait.
A dislocated shoulder, sprained ankle, or other injuries may not seem life-threatening in the ER. Nonetheless, the unbearable pain necessitates prompt care. The orthopedic doctors will provide the much-needed immediate attention. This makes it easier to manage the injuries, especially as there won’t be more stress in the area that could worsen the situation.
Proper diagnosis
A visit to the ER or general practitioner doesn’t mean that you’ll get specialized attention. They might not be well equipped or versed with the skills to manage unique orthopedic injuries and conditions. Misdiagnosis is the last thing you want, as it can worsen the damage.
A quick fix isn’t effective either, as that means you’ll be referred to an orthopedist for specialized care. Orthopedic doctors are well equipped and experienced for thorough on-site diagnosis, including imaging like E-rays. Moreover, they can oversee your recovery process, including follow-ups, making the process more manageable and productive.
Cost-effectiveness
A visit to the ER can be a lot expensive than you might expect. Even a minor injury could see you spending a lot more, especially as you could pay for more than the doctor who attended to your concerns. You could be billed for pain management, supplies like crutches and wraps, X-rays, and be referred to orthopedic doctors by the end of the day. Visiting an orthopedic urgent care facility eliminates most of such costs. You might only incur co-pay in some instances, eliminating the financial burden.
Visiting orthopedic doctors over the ER does more good. Nonetheless, you can only realize such benefits if you find and engage the best doctors. This can be a daunting process, especially if you have no idea where to start or what to consider. Here are straightforward tips to ease the process if you are at this point.
Start with referrals
Your primary care doctor, family, friends, among other people in your circles, are an excellent starting point. Their input can set you on the right path, especially considering their experiences. A medical professional, in their line of work, interacts with others. This means that they can recommend a good orthopedic doctor.
Suppose your friend or relative has interacted with an orthopedic doctor. In that case, they can provide useful information such as why they liked or disliked them, their professionalism, facilities, among other valuable details. With referrals, you can quickly narrow your options to a manageable list.
Check the credentials
Board certification is a must check as you select an orthopedic doctor. This shows that the expert has the right academic background. Relevant training isn’t the only check, though. Consider if the doctor has a history of malpractices or disciplinary cases. Do your homework, ensuring that the doctor operates legally and has a clean track record.
Experience counts
A fresh graduate might not inspire confidence, though it doesn’t mean they aren’t skilled enough to handle your orthopedic problem. Following the complexity of your situation, considering the experience shouldn’t be discounted. An experienced doctor has hands-on skills that can make a significant difference. Apart from their years in the field, has the doctor handled similar cases to your situation? This is a significant check, especially if the injury is complicated or requires surgery. They will most likely deliver better results if they’ve treated many patients with similar problems.
The facility
If the doctor doesn’t have access to a top-class facility, your experience won’t be as good. Modern equipment makes orthopedic treatments efficient. Complications and infection chances are low with a clean and well-equipped facility, translating to better results. Also, consider the facility’s accessibility, more so if you’ll need rehabilitation visits and follow-ups.
You need a location you can conveniently access, eliminating the stress that could affect the recovery process. Choose an easily accessible facility boasting cutting-edge equipment and experienced orthopedic doctors for the best treatment and results.
Reputation
The patient reviews provide valuable insights. You can learn a lot from their experiences. This ranges from scheduling an appointment, office environment, the waiting period, and doctor’s professionalism. Steer clear of doctors with consistent complaints.
Follow your gut
Would you be comfortable with any gender, or do you prefer a male or female doctor? Do you like the doctor? Communication is essential, emphasizing the need to consider your gut as you select orthopedic doctors.
Insurance
Is the doctor in your insurance network? Financial consideration can’t be overlooked. Ensuring that the doctor accepts your insurance is important as you look to lessen the financial burden.
Each day, we are exposed to myriad risks that could lead to minor or severe injuries. When dealing with muscles, joints, and bone injuries, visiting orthopedic doctors over the ER makes more sense. Your recovery process won’t be overwhelming with a thorough diagnosis and effective treatment strategy. Moreover, you’ll save time and money as you won’t spend more on unnecessary treatment. The bottom line, though; use due diligence, as not all orthopedic doctors are equal.
