Frequently Asked Questions

Surgical Procedures

• Where do you perform surgery?

  We have access to a state-of-the-art surgical facility, The Manitowoc Surgery Center for outpatient procedures. We can also perform surgery at Holy Family Memorial, Aurora Hospital and Calumet Medical Center.

• Is physical therapy needed after arthroscopic surgery?

  Physical therapy is usually a good course of treatment to regain use after surgery of both knees and shoulders. It decreases pain, improves your range of motion and helps make you stronger during your recuperation.

• What types of injuries can be treated with arthroscopy?

  Arthroscopic surgery is most commonly performed on shoulder and knee joints because these are larger joints and have lots of space to move the instruments around, but hips, ankles, elbows and wrists can also be treated with arthroscopy.

• What is arthroscopic surgery and how is it performed?

  Arthroscopy is a surgical procedure orthopedic surgeons use to visualize, diagnose, and treat problems inside a joint. In an arthroscopic examination, an orthopedic surgeon makes a small incision in the patient's skin and then inserts instruments that contain a small lens and lighting system to magnify and illuminate the structures inside the joint.

• Is arthroscopic surgery painful?

  Arthroscopic surgery is generally much less painful than traditional surgery; incisions are smaller and surrounding tissues are disturbed less. An anesthesiologist makes sure you are comfortable for the entire procedure and after the surgery; any pain or discomfort is usually satisfied with ice packs and elevation of the joint. We'll also discuss pain medications with you.

• If I'm diagnosed with an orthopedic condition or injury, will surgery always be required?

  Not always. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome, which in some cases does not require a surgical procedure. Many problems can be treated with anti-inflammatory medication, braces or wraps, physical therapy or even changing up your exercise routine or diet. Surgery is often a last resort.

Billing and Insurance

• I have a question about my bill. Who can I call for help?

  We'll be happy to clarify any questions you may have concerning your Orthopaedic Associates charges. Call 920.682.6376 during office hours or contact us online and we'll get in touch with you as soon as possible.

• Do I need to mail a paper claim to my insurance company?

  In most cases, we strive to simplify your experience with OA by submitting your bills to your insurance company for you. We are only able to do this if you provide us with the correct information. When we are unable to successfully submit your bills to your insurance company, the bills will be sent directly to you. In these rare instances, we will assist you by providing the necessary paperwork at your request.

• Does Orthopaedic Associates accept Medicare?

  OA does actively participate in Medicare as well as most Medicare replacement plans offered by commercial insurance companies.

• What forms of payment does Orthopaedic Associates accept?

  In addition to cash payments, we accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, most debit cards and personal checks.

  We understand that high-quality healthcare can be expensive. We make every attempt to work with you to provide the quality care you need at a price you can afford. Please contact our office to work through a plan that works for your unique circumstances.

• Will I need to pay my co-insurance and/or deductible at the time of my visit?

  You are expected to pay your co-insurance or deductible after your insurance company has determined what portion of the bill they will take care of; whatever is left is your responsibility.

• Who can I speak to for information on the cost of a test or procedure?

  We have standardized fees so there are no hidden costs. If you want to know what a service will cost, we're happy to explain it to you in advance. Please contact us if you have any questions at all regarding billing or costs of treatment.

• Is my health insurance plan accepted at Orthopaedic Associates?

  Orthopaedic Associates takes most insurance plans in the Manitowoc area. We're a WPPN preferred provider and also participate in Manitowoc County Care Plan, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Health Care, Prairie States, Medicare and many other insurance providers. For more information on insurance coverage, contact us directly.

Appointments

• Do I need a referral to make an appointment?

  No, you won't need an outside physician's referral to work with our specialists. Because we believe in giving patients the freedom to choose their own physician, we've chosen to operate independently of health networks, which eliminates the need for referrals. Simply contact us directly to make an appointment.

• How do I schedule or cancel an appointment?

  You can schedule your appointment by calling 920.682.6376 or by submitting your appointment request online. If you need to cancel an appointment, please call us as soon as possible so we may use that time for other patients.

• What will I need to bring to my appointment?

  Your insurance card(s), identification for registration and payment for your insurance policy's co-payment. You may be comfortable in loose fitting clothing for the consultation, such as gym shorts for knee problems and sports bra for women with shoulder or spine problems.

• How do I schedule an appointment under Worker's Compensation?

  When making your appointment online or at 920.682.6376, simply mention it will be for a Worker's Compensation claim.

Tests/Prescriptions

• How do I get copies of my X-Rays or MRI results?

  To obtain copies of your X-rays or MRI results or any other test run by Orthopaedic Associates please call 920.682.6376.

• How do I get my prescription refilled?

  Call 920.682.6376 to discuss your request with one of our staff members. For most cases, we're able to refill requests made prior to 4:00 pm on the same day.