Monthly Archives: January 2023

When an illness or injury strikes, deciding which type of care is the best option can be difficult. Urgent care centers are becoming increasingly popular as a viable option for non-life-threatening emergencies. With the ability to provide convenient care, a wide range of services, and lower costs than the emergency room, urgent care centers provide an ideal alternative for those needing prompt medical attention.

The term “urgent care” refers to a medical clinic providing timely medical treatment for non-life-threatening illnesses or injuries. Urgent care centers are typically open for extended hours and offer a variety of services, such as X-rays, lab tests, and basic medical treatments. Additionally, most urgent care centers can provide vaccinations and treatment for minor issues like colds, flu, cuts, and sprains.

While the emergency room is necessary in some cases, you’ll be surprised to find that you can get the care you need at an urgent care instead. Here are a few reasons urgent care is the best option for non-life-threatening emergencies. 

1. Shorter Wait Times 

Urgent care centers have shorter wait times than the emergency room because they are designed to handle more routine medical conditions, such as minor injuries and illnesses, on a walk-in basis. Urgent care centers are typically staffed by skilled professionals, such as physicians, nurses, and physician assistants, who are trained to diagnose and treat non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries. 

By comparison, the emergency room is designed to handle more serious medical emergencies, such as heart attacks, strokes, and other life-threatening conditions requiring immediate medical attention. As a result, the emergency room is often inundated with these more serious cases, which can cause long wait times. Additionally, because urgent care centers are typically open for extended hours, including evenings and weekends, they are able to accommodate more patients and reduce wait times.

2. Routine Medical Care 

Urgent care centers are a popular choice for individuals who need routine medical care but don’t want to wait days or weeks for an appointment with a doctor. These centers provide a wide range of services, including screening and diagnosis, minor surgical procedures, laboratory tests, and basic medical treatments.

Urgent care centers are particularly useful for treating minor illnesses and injuries. Many of these centers are open late and on weekends, which makes them a convenient choice for those who have difficulty getting to a doctor during regular business hours. They also often accept walk-ins, so you don’t have to make an appointment ahead of time.

Some of the most common services offered by urgent care centers include minor laceration repair, treatment of burns, ear and eye infections, colds and flu, and sports injuries. These centers also provide immunizations, physicals, and diagnostic screenings. In some cases, urgent care centers may also offer more complex treatments that require specialized equipment and medications, such as X-rays and IV fluids.

3. Less Expensive

Urgent care centers are typically less expensive than the emergency room because they are designed to treat minor illnesses and injuries that are not life-threatening. Urgent care centers are staffed by physicians who specialize in family medicine and are able to diagnose and treat a wide variety of ailments quickly and efficiently. 

In contrast, emergency rooms are often staffed by doctors who specialize in a particular field and are better equipped to handle more serious medical emergencies. Since urgent care centers are designed to treat minor illnesses and injuries, they are able to provide faster and more cost-effective care than an emergency room. Additionally, urgent care centers are often open longer hours, so they are better able to accommodate patients with non-emergency medical needs. A visit to the emergency room can be very expensive, so having urgent care handle your non-life-threatening problems is a better financial move. 

4. More Convenient 

Urgent care centers offer convenience and cost savings compared to the emergency room. They have shorter wait times, more flexible scheduling, and accept a variety of insurance plans. They also provide a wide array of services, including diagnosis and treatment of minor injuries and illnesses, and they are typically open seven days a week with extended hours. 

Additionally, ERs often have long wait times and limited access to specialists, and they can be expensive for non-emergency issues. Urgent care centers are designed to provide quick and efficient care for non-emergency illnesses and injuries, offer same-day appointments, and accept various insurance plans. 

Urgent care centers are often located in convenient locations as well, such as shopping centers and retail stores. This makes them easily accessible and eliminates the need to travel to a hospital. 

5. They’ll Be Able to Evaluate Whether You Need Hospital Care 

If you’re not sure if you should go to urgent care or an emergency room, it’s best to start with urgent care. The urgent care doctor can evaluate the severity of your condition and refer you to the hospital if needed.  At the urgent care, the doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms and medical history and will likely perform a physical exam. 

The doctor may also order tests like x-rays or blood work to determine the cause of your symptoms. If the doctor feels you need to be seen in the emergency room, they may refer you for further medical evaluation and treatment. 

Final Thoughts 

Urgent care is the best option for non-life-threatening medical emergencies because it can provide fast and convenient diagnosis and treatment. Urgent care centers are equipped to handle a variety of medical issues and are open for extended hours to meet the needs of busy individuals and families. They also provide services such as X-rays and lab tests, as well as minor surgery and wound care.

When it comes to urgent care in the Coeur d’Alene area, OSSM is the best choice. OSSM is a comprehensive urgent care center, offering services such as digital X-rays, lab tests, minor surgery, wound care, and more. Their experienced staff of board-certified physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners can diagnose and treat a variety of minor injuries and illnesses quickly and effectively. OSSM also offers convenient extended hours, allowing patients to receive care at any time.

At OSSM, patients receive the highest quality of care in a friendly, professional environment. The staff is knowledgeable and attentive, and they strive to make sure each patient is comfortable and well taken care of. OSSM also offers competitive prices and accepts most insurance plans. Visit our clinic today – we look forward to serving you! 

Choosing the right orthopedic surgeon can be a daunting task. With so many doctors in the field, it’s hard to know which one is the best fit for your needs. You want to ensure that you get the best care possible, so it’s important to take the time to research the different doctors and ask the right questions. 

When it comes to orthopedic surgery, experience matters. Orthopedic surgeons who have been practicing for many years have likely treated a wide range of conditions and have the expertise to provide the best care. Take the time to research the background and credentials of potential surgeons. Find out how long they’ve been practicing, what type of training they’ve received, and what their areas of specialty are. You can usually find this information on the doctor’s website or by contacting their office.

In this blog post, we’ll provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about which orthopedic surgeon is right for you.

Research Their Credentials 

Researching an orthopedic surgeon’s credentials is an important step in finding the right surgeon for your needs. The credentials can provide vital information about a surgeon’s training, experience, and qualifications. When researching orthopedic surgeons, it’s important to look up their board certification and make sure they are certified in the areas of orthopedic surgery and sports medicine. 

It’s also important to look up any residencies or fellowships they may have completed, as well as any awards or recognitions they may have received. Additionally, it’s important to read reviews from other patients and ask your primary care doctor for referrals. By researching the credentials of an orthopedic surgeon, you can ensure that you are getting the best care possible.

Read Reviews 

Reading reviews of potential orthopedic surgeons is an important step in the process of selecting the right surgeon for your needs. Reviews can provide valuable insight into the doctor’s experience, skill level, and bedside manner. They can also provide information regarding any complications that may have occurred during a particular procedure. 

Reading reviews can help you determine the best fit for you and your medical condition as well. It can provide you with an understanding of the surgeon’s expertise and level of care, as well as what other patients have experienced. Ultimately, reading reviews is an important step in finding the right orthopedic surgeon to provide the care you need.

Get a Consultation 

Getting a consultation with an orthopedic surgeon is important because it allows you to assess whether they are the right fit for your needs. During the consultation, you can get to know the doctor and ask questions about their qualifications, experience, and specialty. You can also find out if they have any specialties that would be beneficial for your specific condition. 

Additionally, you can discuss any potential risks and complications that may arise from the treatment. A consultation with an orthopedic surgeon can help you make an informed decision about your care and ensure that you are comfortable with the doctor and the treatment plan.

Get Referrals 

Getting referrals for an orthopedic surgeon is extremely important when seeking medical care. Referrals are a great way to find an orthopedic surgeon who is highly educated and experienced in the field. They can provide insight into the quality of care you can expect and the surgeon’s level of expertise. Additionally, referrals can provide an opportunity to get to know the surgeon and their staff prior to setting up an appointment. 

Having a good relationship with your doctor is essential for the highest quality of care possible. Furthermore, referrals can help ensure that you get the best possible treatment from the best possible orthopedic surgeon. Ultimately, referrals are an invaluable resource for finding the best orthopedic surgeon for your specific needs, and should not be taken lightly.

Visit & Research the Clinic 

Researching an orthopedic surgeon’s clinic is important because it can help you make sure you are selecting the best possible care for your medical needs. The clinic should have a well-trained and experienced staff who can provide you with the best care and services. 

Additionally, researching the clinic can help you find out more about the success rate of the orthopedic surgeon, their specialty, and the quality of care they provide. Doing your due diligence can also help you to find out if the clinic is equipped with the latest technology and modern equipment. Knowing this information can help you make an informed decision about the clinic and the orthopedic surgeon you choose.

When getting care from an orthopedic surgeon, you’ll spend a lot of time in their office having pre- and post-op appointments. Because of this, you’ll want to make sure you get along with the staff. As you’re researching an orthopedic surgeon, visit their office and make sure you like the environment and the staff.

Final Thoughts 

Choosing the right orthopedic surgeon is one of the most important decisions a person can make when it comes to their health and well-being. Orthopedic surgeons specialize in treating conditions and diseases of the musculoskeletal system, and the successful outcome of treatment depends on the expertise and experience of the orthopedic surgeon. It is essential to do your research and carefully consider all the factors when selecting an orthopedic surgeon.

One of the best options in the Coeur d’Alene area is Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine (OSSM). OSSM is a comprehensive orthopedic practice offering a full range of orthopedic services, including surgical and nonsurgical treatments for musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. OSSM’s surgeons are highly experienced and have a long history of providing excellent care for their patients. All of the surgeons at OSSM are board-certified and have been practicing in the Coeur d’Alene area for many years.

The surgeons at OSSM take a personalized approach to patient care and are dedicated to providing the best possible outcomes for their patients. They are committed to utilizing the latest in orthopedic technologies and treatments to ensure optimal results. Reach out to our team today to schedule a consultation with one of our surgeons. 

With the rising cost of healthcare, it’s more important than ever to find a provider who truly cares about you and wants to help save you money. At OSSM, we strive to provide our patients with the best quality care at affordable prices. We offer in-house care for your acute orthopedic or occupational injuries and concerns so you can skip the emergency room or other urgent care clinics. 

Our orthopedic doctors are trained and qualified to handle your needs and concerns. We understand the financial strain that medical costs can put on individuals and families, so here are a few ways we are committed to helping you save money while getting the best care available in Coeur d’Alene and its surrounding areas. 

1. Avoid ER Visits For Non-Emergency Orthopedic Care

ER visits can be incredibly expensive, but OSSM Urgent Care provides timely access to orthopedic care for non-emergency injuries. Our team of orthopedic specialists is trained in bone and joint injuries and can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan at the time of injury.

Additionally, we save you time – and time is money. You don’t have to spend hours in the emergency room waiting to be seen. If you come to OSSM, you’ll get the care and treatment plan you need in a very timely manner. 

2. Save on Costly Lab Tests. 

We offer comprehensive lab testing on-site, which can save you the time and cost of visiting a separate lab. When you come to our office, one of our trained nurses will perform the blood test for you so you don’t have to go somewhere else. Our team is dedicated to giving you the best care while saving you time and money in the long run. 

3. Reduced Waiting Times 

OSSM Urgent Care offers same-day treatment, so you don’t have to wait days or weeks to get the necessary care. If you have a minor orthopedic issue that needs treatment right away, you can skip the hospital and come straight to us. There’s no need to wait an extended period of time at the hospital when you can get the care you need right now! Additionally, you won’t have to pay outrageous hospital bills since you’ll receive care in our clinic instead. 

4. We Provide X-Rays On-Site

X-Rays are a huge part of orthopedic care, so we do our x-rays on-site. When you come in with an injury, we will assess the problem and give you an x-ray so we can get a better look. Once we see what’s going on, we’ll be able to give you a personalized treatment plan that will start immediately. 

5. We Accept All Major Insurance Plans 

We care about our patients and their financial well-being, which is why we accept all major insurance plans. Just give us a call today to see if your plan will work with us! On the other hand, if you don’t have insurance, we offer discounted rates for out-of-pocket care. Reach out to learn more and get the care you need and deserve. 

6. Skip the Hassle of Referrals and Authorizations

You don’t have to worry about getting referrals and authorizations from your primary care provider if you have insurance. We’ll handle all of that for you. If you know you have a minor orthopedic issue, you can skip going to your primary care provider and come straight to us – we’ll make sure you are taken care of from start to finish. 

7. We’re a Walk-In Clinic 

Because we are technically an urgent care clinic, you can walk in and be treated at any time. Whether you sprained your ankle on a hike or your neck has been bothering you for a while, you can walk into our clinic, and we’ll take care of you. 

When you visit OSSM, our goal is to make sure you leave feeling like you have answers. We never want to send you out the door feeling like your pain isn’t going to go away, so we’ll do everything we can to get you a diagnosis and treatment. If it’s out of our scope, we will refer you to another trusted medical professional who specializes in your specific needs. 

When Should You Visit OSSM? 

Many situations would call for an emergency room visit. We don’t have everything the hospital has, so if there is a real emergency, you should definitely go to the hospital. However, OSSM can help you with a wide variety of non-emergency issues, saving you time and money. Here are a few examples of situations that would warrant a visit to OSSM Urgent Care: 

• Sprains: If you have sprained your ankle, wrist, or any other joints, we can treat you at OSSM. 
• Sports Injury: If you have a minor injury from playing sports, OSSM has the tools and equipment to treat you. Again, if you suspect a major injury, visit the emergency room instead. 
• Minor Dislocation: We can diagnose and treat minor dislocations. From fingers to shoulders and knees, we can help get you back to feeling great. 
• Fractures & Broken Bones: You don’t have to go to the emergency room for fractures and broken bones. We can treat you here! 
• Ongoing Pain: If you have ongoing aches and pains in your muscles and joints, you don’t have to suffer alone – the specialists at OSSM are here to help. We can diagnose the issue and give you a comprehensive treatment plan all in the same day.  

At OSSM Urgent Care, we understand the financial strain that medical costs can put on individuals and families. That’s why we’re committed to providing quality care at a more affordable cost. We offer same-day treatment, comprehensive lab testing, onsite x-rays, telemedicine services, and more. We accept all major insurance plans, but you can also receive care without insurance. Contact us today to see how we can help you save money on your healthcare costs.

When it comes to treating injuries and helping patients heal quickly, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Depending on the type of injury, various treatments may be necessary. Fortunately, there are several options available through OSSM, including orthopedic surgery, physical therapy, and urgent care. Each has its own unique benefits and can help patients heal more quickly.

Orthopedic Surgery 

Orthopedic surgery is a specialized medical field that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. OSSM surgeons can provide a range of procedures, such as joint replacement, fracture repair, and ligament reconstruction. Orthopedic surgery can be used to treat a variety of injuries, including fractures, sprains, and strains when surgery is necessary.

The benefit of orthopedic surgery is that it can help patients heal more quickly. Our surgeons specialize in helping reduce pain and improve mobility, allowing patients to return to their daily activities sooner. Our surgeons can also reduce the risk of long-term complications, such as arthritis or muscle weakness.

When is orthopedic surgery necessary?

Orthopedic surgery may be necessary if an individual is suffering from a severe musculoskeletal injury, such as a broken bone, torn ligament, or herniated disc. Orthopedic surgery can also be used to treat conditions such as osteoarthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and rotator cuff tears. 

Orthopedic surgery can help improve pain, restore mobility, and improve a person’s overall quality of life. In addition, orthopedic surgery may be necessary if a person has a deformity, such as scoliosis, or a birth defect, such as clubfoot. Orthopedic surgery can be used to correct these deformities and restore the person’s normal range of motion.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is another treatment option for patients with injuries. Physical therapists can provide a range of treatments, including exercise, stretching, and massage. These treatments can help reduce pain and improve mobility, which allows patients to heal from injuries and surgeries much faster than if they try to heal without physical therapy.

Physical therapy can also help prevent future injuries by strengthening the muscles and improving flexibility. This can help reduce the risk of re-injury and can help patients heal more quickly in the future.

When is physical therapy necessary? 

Physical therapy would be necessary for a variety of situations. For example, physical therapy may be needed if someone has suffered an injury, such as a sprained ankle or a broken bone, to help restore range of motion, strength, and stability in the area that was injured. Additionally, physical therapy may be necessary for individuals who have chronic pain or have gone through a surgical procedure to help minimize pain and restore function. 

Physical therapy may also be necessary for individuals with neurological conditions such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or multiple sclerosis to help maximize their independence and quality of life. Finally, physical therapists may also be able to help improve balance and prevent falls in older adults.

Urgent Care

Finally, urgent care is a great option for patients with orthopedic injuries. Our urgent care clinic is staffed with experienced medical professionals who can assess and diagnose injuries, as well as provide treatment. Urgent care centers can provide a range of treatments, including splinting, casting, and suturing.

The benefit of urgent care is that it can provide quick relief for patients who have suffered an injury. OSSM urgent care can provide immediate treatment and diagnosis, which can help reduce pain and improve mobility. This can help patients heal more quickly and can reduce the risk of long-term complications.

Why should I go to an urgent care over a hospital? 

Urgent care centers offer a variety of benefits over hospitals, from lower costs and shorter wait times to convenience and expanded services. Urgent care centers are typically far less expensive than the emergency room at a hospital, often providing a flat fee for services, and wait times are usually far shorter than at a hospital, sometimes just minutes. 

The convenience of an urgent care center allows for quick and easy access to medical services, often in a patient’s own neighborhood. Additionally, many urgent care centers offer the same services that are available at a hospital, such as X-ray and laboratory services, allowing for a more timely approach to medical care.

When should I go to a hospital over an urgent care? 

If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is best to go to the hospital instead of an urgent care: chest pain, difficulty breathing, sudden or severe pain, signs of a stroke (such as facial drooping, confusion, or difficulty speaking or understanding), severe or persistent vomiting, or signs of infection (such as fever or chills). 

In addition, if you are pregnant, have a serious injury, or have a condition that requires specialized care, you should go to the hospital instead of an urgent care center. In any case, it is important to listen to your body and seek medical help if you feel like you need it.

Conclusion

When it comes to treating injuries and helping patients heal quickly, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Depending on the type of injury, various treatments may be necessary. Fortunately, there are several options available at OSSM, including orthopedic surgery, physical therapy, and urgent care. Each has its own unique benefits and can help patients heal more quickly. Orthopedic surgery can provide a range of procedures to reduce pain and improve mobility. Physical therapy can help strengthen muscles and improve flexibility, while urgent care can provide immediate relief. By using a combination of these treatments, patients can heal more quickly and reduce the risk of long-term complications.

OSSM serves Hayden, Post Falls, CDA, Rathdrum and surrounding areas by providing top-notch medical care. Our team of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals are dedicated to providing the highest quality of care to our patients. 

We offer a wide range of services, including surgery, urgent care, and physical therapy. OSSM also offers a variety of specialized services, such as sports medicine and orthopedic care. Our convenient locations allow us to easily reach patients throughout Hayden, Post Falls, CDA, Rathdrum and surrounding areas.

If you are experiencing any type of ongoing pain or discomfort, OSSM can help. Visit our clinic today and one of our doctors will give you a diagnosis and comprehensive treatment plan to get you back to your peak health. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you get your life back!