So, you’ve made a great orthotic for your patient, now what? Having a system in place for maintaining a thriving orthotic practice is easy to do and can be very beneficial to your patient's welfare, your reputation as an expert in your field, as well as your bottom line.
The doctor or therapist and the staff should work as a team, with each team member having a defined role. Cross training staff members can always be beneficial in case of employee absence or just being a busy office.
Oftentimes orthotics are used in conjunction with other forms of treatment. Make sure during the visit for orthotic dispense, adequate time has been reserved. Sometimes it is preferable to have a dedicated appointment just for orthotic dispense. Review the orthotic prescription to determine if the orthotic was manufactured correctly, the orthotic conforms to the patient accurately, and fits in the patient's shoes. (Make sure the patient is told ahead of time to bring their shoes!) Allow and instruct the patient in placing the orthotics into the shoes, adjust if necessary. Have the patient walk briefly with their new orthotics, advise them they may not be totally comfortable in the beginning. Address any questions or concerns at this time. Go over break in procedures, advise that the benefit of the orthotics may not be apparent instantly.
Generally, a two week follow up appointment is advisable. Once again, remind the patient to bring their orthotics and shoes. Repeat all the procedures of the previous appointment. Adjust the orthotics if you or the patient are not completely satisfied with the performance of the devices. Advise patients that oftentimes second pair orthotics are recommended for different purposes. Review ongoing care and maintenance of the orthotic devices.
Annual or semi-annual evaluations of the orthotics should be scheduled whether the patient is symptomatic or asymptomatic. Check for excessive wear and tear. Monitor outgrowth in children. Evaluation and management of the orthotics, and the underlying diagnosis, is reasonable and customary, and should be reimbursable.
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