Are Orthopedic Surgeons Specialist Doctors?

Orthopedic surgery is generally considered a medical speciality, and it is almost always deemed medically necessary. This means that, in most cases, insurance will cover at least part of the cost of surgery. However, it is the patient's responsibility to contact their insurance company to find out what is covered by their plan. It is also important to ensure that the orthopedic surgeon is listed as a provider on the insurance plan.

Orthopedic surgery is usually considered a medical necessity by insurance companies

Orthopedic surgery is a type of medical procedure that involves the treatment of musculoskeletal issues, such as injuries or disorders affecting bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and nerves. It is considered one of the more cutting-edge and in-demand fields in medicine. Orthopedic surgeons require extensive training and often operate private practices.

Orthopedic surgery is typically considered a medical necessity by insurance companies. This means that insurance providers are more likely to cover part or all of the expenses associated with the procedure, depending on the patient's insurance plan. However, it is important to note that insurance coverage can vary, and patients should always check with their insurance provider to understand their specific coverage details.

The cost of orthopedic surgery can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of surgery, the need for an overnight hospital stay, anesthesia requirements, consultation fees, and diagnostic exams. These costs can quickly add up, making insurance coverage crucial for alleviating the financial burden on patients.

In addition to health insurance, there are other types of insurance coverage that may apply to orthopedic treatments. These include workers' compensation insurance for work-related injuries and auto insurance for injuries sustained in car accidents. Federal programs like Medicaid and Medicare may also provide coverage for orthopedic surgery for those who qualify.

When preparing for orthopedic surgery, it is essential to have all the necessary information upfront. Patients should familiarize themselves with their insurance policies, obtain any required referrals, and confirm that their chosen specialist is listed as a provider on their insurance plan. Additionally, it is the patient's responsibility to contact their insurance company and understand what costs will be covered to avoid unexpected financial surprises.

Contact your insurance company to learn about what's covered before visiting an orthopedic doctor

Orthopedic treatments are medical procedures that involve the musculoskeletal system, including bones, muscles, joints, and ligaments. These treatments can range from minor procedures like casting or splinting to major surgeries like joint replacements.

If you're dealing with an orthopedic issue, you may be wondering if your insurance will cover the cost of treatment. The answer depends on your insurance plan and provider. Here are some steps to help you understand what's covered before visiting an orthopedic doctor:

• Understand your insurance plan: Review your insurance policy to know what is covered and what isn't. Look for information about orthopedic treatments, medically necessary procedures, and any specific exclusions or limitations.
• Contact your insurance provider: Get in touch with your insurance company directly to inquire about coverage for orthopedic treatments. Ask about their pre-authorization process and any requirements for prior approval.
• Check for in-network providers: Using an in-network orthopedic specialist can help maximize your insurance coverage and minimize out-of-pocket expenses. Check with your insurance company to find out which orthopedic doctors or clinics are considered in-network.
• Get a referral: If your insurance plan requires a referral from your primary care physician, be sure to obtain one before visiting an orthopedic specialist. This is often necessary for insurance coverage of specialist visits.
• Understand medical necessity: Orthopedic treatments that are deemed medically necessary are more likely to be covered by insurance. Discuss with your doctor whether the treatment is considered medically necessary and get the required documentation.
• Ask about specific procedures: If you know the specific procedure or treatment you need, ask your insurance company if it is covered. This includes surgical procedures, diagnostic tests, physical therapy, and medication.
• Understand your financial responsibility: Even if a procedure is covered by insurance, you may still be responsible for deductibles or copays. Understand your financial obligations under your insurance plan to avoid unexpected costs.
• Consider other insurance options: If you don't have insurance or your insurance doesn't cover orthopedic treatments, explore other options. These may include Medicare, Medicaid, or workers' compensation insurance, depending on your situation.

By taking these steps, you can gain a clear understanding of what orthopedic treatments are covered by your insurance plan. This will help you make informed decisions about your healthcare options and ensure you are prepared for any financial responsibilities.

Orthopedic doctors may recommend non-surgical treatments before suggesting surgery

Orthopedic doctors, often referred to as orthopedic surgeons, are highly specialized physicians that diagnose and treat musculoskeletal issues. Orthopedic doctors will often recommend non-surgical treatments before suggesting surgery. This is because orthopedic injuries usually respond very well to conservative methods, and surgery is typically recommended as a last resort when non-surgical treatments have not worked.

Orthopedic doctors have many treatment modalities to heal and manage musculoskeletal issues. For example, they can treat neck, shoulder, and lower back pain without the need for surgery. In fact, it is estimated that 90% of patients with an orthopedic injury or chronic musculoskeletal issue can be successfully treated with non-surgical treatments.

Non-surgical treatments offered by orthopedic doctors include:

• Injection therapy and medications, such as anti-inflammatories and muscle relaxants
• Viscosupplementation, which is the delivery of hyaluronic acid into painful joints
• Physical therapy, which includes strengthening and range-of-motion exercises
• Bracing, booting, and casting to immobilize injuries
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, which uses a patient's own blood supply to heal certain injuries
• Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), which uses low-dose sound waves to stimulate healing and reduce pain
• Nerve blocks, which help prevent or decrease pain in an affected area

Orthopedic doctors may also recommend lifestyle changes, such as modifying physical activity, diet, and exercise routines, to prevent the aggravation of an injury or condition.

Orthopedic surgeons require around 14 years of formal education to obtain board certification

Orthopedic surgeons are highly specialized physicians who diagnose and treat musculoskeletal injuries and disorders. They are both physicians and surgeons who focus on the structural systems of the human body. The road to becoming an orthopedic surgeon is a long one, with around 14 years of formal education required to obtain board certification.

Undergraduate Degree

The first step towards becoming an orthopedic surgeon is to obtain a bachelor's degree, which typically takes four years. Students can take pre-med classes or apply for internships, choosing science-based electives such as biology, physics, chemistry, mathematics, and English.

Medical School

The next step is to attend medical school, which lasts for another four years. During this time, students will take the National Board exams – one after the second year and another during the fourth year. They will also participate in clinical rotations in standard medical specialties. Upon completion, graduates will earn either a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree.

Residency

After medical school, orthopedic surgeons will complete a residency program, which consists of four to five years of focused study on the fundamentals of orthopedic surgery. During this time, they will rotate through the major subspecialties in different hospitals to gain practical experience with various surgical techniques and technologies.

Fellowship

Upon completion of their residency, orthopedic surgeons can choose to pursue a fellowship, lasting one to two years, to specialize in a particular area of the body or a subspecialty such as pediatric orthopedics, orthopedic oncology, reconstructive surgery, or sports medicine.

Licensing and Board Certification

Once their education and training are complete, orthopedic surgeons must pass a licensing exam to practice. While not mandatory, most orthopedic surgeons also pursue board certification. This involves a peer-review process and written and oral exams administered by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS) or the American Osteopathic Board of Orthopedic Surgery (AOBOS). Board certification must be renewed every seven to ten years through continuing education and exams.

In total, the journey to becoming a board-certified orthopedic surgeon takes a commitment of around 14 years of formal education and training.

Orthopedic surgeons can specialise in specific body parts, such as the spine, foot, or ankle

Orthopedic surgeons can choose to become generalists or specialists. Those who opt for the latter can gain advanced training and experience in the field, specialising in specific body parts. Specialising in a particular body part allows orthopedic surgeons to gain expert-level experience and stay up to date with the latest advancements in treatment options for that area of the body.

Orthopedic surgeons can specialise in the following body parts:

• Spine: Orthopedic surgeons can specialise in treating injuries and conditions affecting the spine, which may be the result of disease, degeneration, or trauma. Spinal disorders are a common focus of orthopedic surgeons, with their role often overlapping with neurosurgeons who treat spinal cord disorders.
• Foot and ankle: Foot and ankle surgery is a common specialty for orthopedic surgeons. This involves treating conditions such as sprains, strains, fractures, tendonitis, and problems associated with diabetes.
• Hand and upper extremities: Orthopedic surgeons may also specialise in hand surgery, focusing on diagnosing and treating injuries and conditions affecting the hand, wrist, and forearm. This includes conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, fractures, and trigger finger.
• Hip and knee: Orthopedic surgeons can specialise in treating dislocations, fractures, and arthritis in the hip or knee joints. They may also perform replacement surgeries for these joints.
• Shoulder and elbow: Orthopedic surgeons specialising in this area treat all conditions that occur in the shoulders or elbows, such as arthritis, rotator cuff tears, tendon tears, and ligament tears. They also help patients manage pain and the effects of aging in these joints.

In addition to these specialisations, orthopedic surgeons may also focus on specific patient populations, such as pediatric orthopedics, or subspecialties like sports medicine, reconstructive surgery, or orthopedic oncology.

Frequently asked questions