Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Please bring your photo ID, insurance card, a list of current medications, any relevant imaging (X-rays, MRI results), and a referral if required by your insurance plan. Arrive 15 minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork.
Do I need a referral to see an orthopedic surgeon?
In most cases, a referral is not required. However, some insurance plans, particularly HMOs, may require a referral from your primary care physician. We recommend checking with your insurance provider before scheduling.
How long will my appointment take?
Initial consultations typically last 30-45 minutes. Follow-up appointments are usually 15-20 minutes. Please arrive 15 minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork.
What is your approach to treatment?
We follow a conservative-first philosophy — we always explore non-surgical options such as physical therapy, medication, injections, and bracing before recommending surgery. As trauma surgeons contracted with hospitals, we have no financial incentive to recommend unnecessary procedures. If surgery is necessary, our surgeons use the latest minimally invasive techniques to minimize recovery time.
Do you treat children?
Yes, our orthopedic surgeons treat patients of all ages, including children with fractures and sports injuries. Pediatric fractures require specialized care due to growing bones.
How long will my recovery take?
Recovery time varies depending on your condition and treatment. Minor sprains or strains may heal in a few weeks, while fractures typically take 6 to 12 weeks. Surgical procedures may require several months of rehabilitation. During your consultation, we will provide a personalized recovery timeline.
Insurance & Billing
What insurance plans do you accept?
All of our surgeons accept the following plans:
- Medicare
- Humana Medicare Advantage
- Aetna
- Aetna Medicare Advantage
- United Healthcare
- Blue Shield
- Cigna
- Health Smart
- Multiplan
- Multiplan PHCS
- Scripps EPO (for Scripps employees, not HMO)
- USA MCO
- San Diego PACE
See our Insurance Information page for the full list. Please contact our office to verify coverage for your specific plan and surgeon.
Does every surgeon accept the same insurance plans?
Almost — with one current exception:
- Blue Cross is accepted by Dr. Kuhn and Dr. Dromsky
- Dr. Quacinella's Blue Cross re-application has been submitted and is currently pending
If Blue Cross is your plan, please call our office so we can match you with the right surgeon.
What if I don't have insurance?
We offer self-pay options and can discuss payment plans for uninsured patients. Please contact our billing department to discuss your options.
Will I receive a bill after my visit?
If your insurance requires a copay or deductible, you may receive a bill for the remaining balance after your insurance processes the claim. We will provide a cost estimate before any procedures.
Still have questions?
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