Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about our practice and treatment for orthopedic conditions and pain.
Which physician should I see?
Your symptoms and condition will determine which physician you should see. We have several orthopedic specialists on staff, and each one specializes in the treatment of a specific musculoskeletal region: spine, shoulder, hip, foot/ankle, knee, hand, etc.
When scheduling an appointment please let our staff know which region you are concerned about. They will make an appointment for you with the appropriate physician.
What is a physician assistant?
Many of our physicians will have a physician assistant on their team who participates in your care. Physician assistants are healthcare professionals licensed to practice medicine with physician supervision. Physician assistants see patients in the office, as well as assist the physicians in surgery.
Where is your office located?
For your convenience we have several offices located around the Pacific Northwest. See our locations.
How do I schedule an appointment?
For all locations at Orthopedics International call the dedicated appointment line: 1.877.277.8641.
What are your business hours?
Our business hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
How can I reach my provider if I have more questions or problems?
Call 206.323.1900, option 8. For all emergencies call 911.
What should I bring with me to my first appointment?
Please bring your identification and insurance cards. Also located on our website are the forms that you will need to complete. To save time you have the option to print and fill out the forms. Please bring them with you on the day of your appointment.
If you have had a workup for your current condition, please bring copies of your medical records include chart notes, X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, radiology reports, operative reports, etc.
Do I need a referral?
Orthopedics International does not require a referral. However, please contact your insurance carrier before your first appointment. Some insurance carriers require a referral from your primary care provider prior to being seen in our office.
If I am referred to an Orthopedics International physician, what do I need to do prior to the appointment?
You must obtain any previous X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, operative reports and any other notes associated with your current condition.
If I need surgery, what do I need to do?
Upon completion of your appointment with the surgeon and it has been assessed that you will need surgery. You will have the opportunity to meet with your surgeon’s surgery scheduler. He/she will go over all the required items you will need to have completed prior to your surgery.If medical clearance is needed prior to surgery, the surgery scheduler will help you get the tests you need done. If you do not need medical clearance tests done, the surgery scheduler will set up your appointment at that visit. If you have any questions regarding surgery scheduling, please call the office and ask to speak with your surgeon’s surgery scheduler.
Where will my surgery take place?
Our surgeons operate out of Evergreen Medical Center, Swedish Orthopedics Institute, and the Evergreen Orthopedic Surgery Center. The type of surgery and your insurance plan will determine the location.
How do I request medication refills if necessary?
Orthopedics International’s medication refill policy is that the refill will be taken care of within 48 business hours of receiving the request. Call-in hours are Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Fridays 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. We do not refill narcotic prescriptions after hours or on weekends.
If I need my X-rays, how do I get them?
Please call the office where the X-rays were taken and ask to speak with the X-ray records clerk. You will need to fill out an Authorization to Release Information Form.
Authorization to Release Information Form
If I need a copy of my medical records, how do I get them?
Call 206.323.1900, option 6; the voice message will walk you through the process. You will need to fill out an Authorization to Release Information Form. You can scan and email the form to oil@orthopedics-intl.net, fax it to 206.323.6868, or mail to:
Orthopedics International
Attn Medical Records
901 Boren Ave, #800
Seattle, WA 98104
Please allow 10-14 days to process the request.
Who do I call for billing questions?
For questions concerning your bill or insurance, call Patient Accounts (425) 216-7000.
For charges made to your account prior to December 31, 2012, call 206-323-1900 and press 5.
How do I get disability forms completed?
Send or drop off your disability forms to the appropriate office and allow 7 to 10 days for completion. Once the form is completed, we will notify you; you can pick up the form in person or have it faxed to you.