Orthopedic Evaluation Without a Referral In Northern Indiana
Our patients often ask us if they can visit an OSMC doctor without their primary physician’s referral. Yes, you can! But be sure to understand the details. Sometimes, your insurance provider may require a referral before services can be rendered. In other cases, if you know that your condition is specific to services provided by an orthopedic specialist, booking an appointment directly can save you time, money, stress, and additional pain.
It’s a common practice to visit your primary care physician first when you have a health concern. However, having a referral from your primary healthcare provider is not a requirement to see a specialist at the Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Northern Indiana, Inc. (OSMC).
Is OSMC Taking New Patients?
Yes! “Our goal is to get our patients the orthopedic care they need – when and where they need it. We are proud to serve Michiana with our convenient clinic locations and walk-in OrthoCARE clinics,” said Robin McLaughlin, Chief Operating Officer at OSMC.
OSMC has a team of healthcare providers who provide many services in our six convenient Indiana locations, including two orthopedic walk-in clinics for same-day orthopedic appointments in the Michiana region. We also offer virtual telehealth services for safety and convenience.
Robin continued, “We treat a large variety of musculoskeletal concerns at OSMC, including conditions affecting your neck, back and spine, shoulder, elbow, hand and wrist, hip, knee, foot and ankle, and more. Aches and pains in these areas can often be alleviated using conservative treatments. If more serious treatment is needed, our providers can also handle that.”
Learn more about General Orthopedics.
When Do I Need a Referral?
Although OSMC of Michiana doesn’t require a referral from your primary care provider, some health insurance companies require patients to obtain a referral before seeing a specialist. Please check with your insurance provider before making your appointment with us to confirm their authorization process.
If you are receiving physical therapy, you will need a referral from your primary care physician or medical provider for your physical therapy to be covered by your insurance.
If your insurance provider requires a referral for coverage purposes, OSMC accepts them from providers by fax, phone, or email. We will also accept original signed prescription orders when you arrive for your appointment.
How Do I Get Started as a New Patient?
New patients can find answers to frequently asked questions and new patient forms on our website. Completing these forms before your arrival in our office can save you some time during your first appointment.
If you still have questions, contact us at (574) 319-1572. The staff at OSMC will be happy to help you decide whether to visit your primary care doctor for a referral or book an appointment directly with us without a referral.
We look forward to helping you feel better and regain strength and stability, allowing you to return to your busy lifestyle!
This blog post is not intended to provide personal medical advice, professional diagnosis, opinion, or treatment to you or any other individual. It is information for educational purposes only. You should not use this information in place of a consultation or the advice of a healthcare provider.
