This post was written based on the appearance of Jodi Chambers, PA-C, on the program PBS HealthLine.
When struck with sudden pain or minor injuries, many wonder where they should seek care. Choosing between an emergency room or urgent care, a virtual or in-person walk-in clinic, or an orthopedic walk-in clinic can be daunting. In this post, we discuss when an orthopedic walk-in clinic offers the most effective options for care.
Should I visit an orthopedic walk-in clinic or regular walk-in clinic?
Choosing the right clinic depends on the nature of the pain or injury. An easy way to distinguish between visiting a regular walk-in clinic versus one for orthopedic care is to ask, "Am I ill, or am I hurt?".
A normal walk-in clinic may treat common health concerns, like a cold or infection. In contrast, orthopedic walk-in clinics address non-life-threatening musculoskeletal issues or sports injuries. These specialized facilities provide immediate access to general orthopedic care and onsite imaging without needing appointments or referrals. Conditions typically treated at these walk-in clinics include:
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Suspected broken bones
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Tendon and ligament injuries
Can I visit an orthopedic clinic if it's not an acute issue?
Orthopedic walk-in clinics can also be valuable resources for managing certain chronic conditions or their complications. For instance, if someone has experienced back pain after improperly lifting heavy objects following surgery, an orthopedic walk-in clinic can provide methods for temporary pain relief or referrals for physical therapy. Another instance may be an individual diagnosed with arthritis who already receives care from a rheumatologist but requires a cortisone injection; this can be administered at an orthopedic walk-in clinic.
For more complex issues, such as second and third opinions or long-term treatment plans for chronic conditions, it's best to schedule a consultation with an orthopedic specialist.
What if I have multiple injuries or broken bones?
Individuals who have sustained multiple injuries, such as a broken wrist and a sprained ankle, as a result of a fall can seek care at an orthopedic walk-in clinic. However, these facilities do not perform surgical procedures. Depending on the severity of the injury or if it involves large bones, like a broken femur and humerus, it would be more appropriate to visit an emergency room for more comprehensive care.
Is there a cost difference between visiting an orthopedic walk-in clinic versus the emergency room?
In most instances, visiting an orthopedic walk-in clinic is more affordable than a trip to the emergency room. A walk-in clinic is often treated like a regular office visit, lowering out-of-pocket expenses. However, the exact cost of services largely depends on the individual's insurance coverage.
Learn more
Parkview Ortho Express now offers convenient same-day orthopedic care at two northeast Indiana locations. If you're uncertain whether an orthopedic walk-in clinic is right for you, call us at 260-266-4007 to discuss your needs before you arrive.
