Orthopedic Appointment What to Expect

New Patient Information

Orthopedic appointment what to expect. New Patient Information: Know what to expect for your first orthopedic appointment. Plan ahead to make the most of your orthopedic evaluation.When you meet with an orthopaedic surgeon for the first time, it is helpful to know what to expect during the orthopedic evaluation. Your first orthopedic appointment will most likely include a comprehensive medical history evaluation, diagnostic imaging (X-rays and/or MRI), and physical tests.

The following checklist will help you and your orthopedic doctor discuss the important issues for getting the most out of your first orthopedic appointment.

Click topics below to expand for more information.

  • 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: about your condition (pains, loss of mobility or function).
  • 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.
  • Comfortable Clothes: Your condition may involve X-rays. Wear loose clothing that’s easy to take off and put on

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  • Arrive at least 15 minutes early with your paperwork completed to ensure that we can take care of any last-minute requirements before you see the doctor.
  • Be honest and complete in 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.

  • 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 healthcare 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 healthcare 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.

  • What is the procedure called?
  • Why is this procedure being recommended?
  • Are there alternatives?
  • What are the benefits of this procedure in terms of pain relief, functioning/mobility?
  • How long will the benefit last?
  • Are there risks involved?
  • What is the success rate for this procedure?
  • How is it done?
  • What percentage of patients improve following the procedure?
  • Will the surgery need to be repeated after a certain amount of time?
  • How many of these procedures are annually performed at the hospital/ orthopaedic surgery center?
  • What will happen if I don’t have the surgery now?
  • If I want a second opinion, whom can I consult?
  • Will my doctor perform the operation or someone else?
  • Is the doctor board-certified?
  • How many similar procedures have been done by my doctor (or whoever will perform the procedure?)
  • What are the outcomes?
  • Will I need any tests or medical evaluations prior to the surgery?
  • What kind of anesthesia will be used? Are there possible after effects or risks?
  • Will I meet with the anesthesiologist in advance?
  • How will the physician know my needs/allergies?
  • What kind of implant or prosthesis will be used?
  • What are the outcomes using this device?
  • How long will it last?
  • Will I have pain following the procedure?
  • What pain relief or pain control measures will I be given?
  • How long will the recovery take?
  • What are my limitations during recovery?
  • Will I need assistance at home afterward? For how long?
  • What will discharge instructions be?
  • Following surgery will I have any disability?
  • Will I need physical therapy?
  • When can I return to work?
  • Can I drive my car?
  • When can I have sexual activity?
  • Are there any written materials or videotapes about this surgery that I can review?

If you have any other questions regarding your first visit to Orthopaedic Associates of Marlborough, please call us at
(508) 485-3665.

We look forward to working with you!
Orthopaedic Associates of Marlborough Team

GENERAL INQUIRIES

  • (508) 485-3665
  • Contact: contactus@orthomarlborough.com
    Billing: billingdept@orthomarlborough.com

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  • Marlborough Location
    Marlborough Medical Building
    65 Fremont Street | Marlborough, MA 01752
    Telephone: 508-485-3665 | Fax: 508-485-0899

  • Northborough Location
    Carewell Urgent Care Building
    333 Southwest Cutoff | Northborough, MA 01532
    Telephone: 508-485-3665
    Appointments call UMASS scheduling: 855-862-7763

  • Westborough Location
    UMass Memorial Orthopedics
    154 East Main Street | Westborough, MA 01581
    Telephone: 508-485-3665
    Appointments call UMASS scheduling: 855-862-7763

OFFICE HOURS*

Monday 8:00am - 5:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am - 5:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am - 5:00pm
Thursday 8:00am - 5:00pm
Friday temporarily closed

The office is generally closed for lunch from 12-1 daily.
*Office hours are subject to change without notice. Scheduling can direct you with additional times when available.

Make An Appointment

To schedule an appointment, please call (508) 485-3665 OR Make an Appointment Request online.

We are currently accepting new patients and referrals.

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