FAQ for Summit Orthopedics in Summit County - top orthopedic trauma and sports medicine doctors

When you are injured or in pain and thinking about seeing an orthopedic doctor, it is not uncommon to have questions. We have provided the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions below. If you have a question that is not answered here, please feel free to email us or give us a call. We are here to help!

What insurance plans does your office take?

Summit Orthopedics contracts with most major insurance plans. Insurance contracts do occasionally change. If you have additional questions, please call us. Occasionally, employers will restrict the network of doctors that you have access to through your plan. Please check with your employer, insurance company or insurance broker if you are not sure of your plan requirements or need more information about your specific plan. Below is a list of the current insurance plans that we participate with, as well as those that we are not currently contracted with.

Summit Orthopedics does accept new Medicaid patients

Insurance Summit and PT12-20

What is the difference between a copay and coinsurance?

Summit Orthopedics does not make determinations about copays or coinsurance.

A copay is a fixed amount – or flat fee – a patient is responsible for paying with his or her own money (out of pocket) for certain services or medicines. Plans specify what this amount will be for a variety of health-related services, such as a doctor or specialist visit, emergency room visit or prescription medications. Copays are determined by health insurance plans and are often printed on health insurance cards. It is the patient’s responsibility to pay his or her copay at the time of service.

Coinsurance is a percentage of costs a patient is responsible for paying with his or her own money (out of pocket). Plans specify what this percentage will be for a variety of health-related services, such as a specialist visit, emergency room visit or prescription medications. Because coinsurance is a percentage of total costs, it can be difficult to estimate and plan for in advance

What is an insurance deductible?

This is the amount patients must pay annually with their own money (out of pocket) before an insurance plan will pay for any expenses. This amount does not include premiums (the amount you pay monthly to your insurance company). For example, if a deductible is $1,000, the health plan won’t pay anything until a patient pays the first $1,000 of medical costs incurred. Deductibles vary by insurance company and by plan so you should consult your policy to determine your deductible amount.

Why am I getting different bills from different companies?

Summit Orthopedics will send you a bill for the surgeon’s part of the surgery. This may also include a surgical assistant fee. There is a separate charge for the facility (hospital or surgery center) for their service during the surgery. In some cases, there may also be a separate charge for the anesthesiologist’s service during the surgery.

How does the payment plan work?

Summit Orthopedics makes every attempt to assist patients with their financial needs. Our payment plans vary, but we normally will ask for a certain percentage prior to surgery or procedure, with monthly payments to be completed within 90 days of the date of service. Our financial counselor will review these costs prior to any scheduled procedures

Who do I call if I have questions about my bill?

The business office can provide answers to almost all billing questions. For assistance with your insurance and billing questions, please contact us at 970-262-7400.

How can I request my medical records?

The fastest way to obtain your medical records is to fill out our HIPPA Authorization form and mail it, fax it, or drop it off at our location. If you have any questions, please call 970-262-7400 to receive more information.

SO HIPAA-Authorization

Should I bring any previous tests or scans for my upcoming appointment?

Yes. If you have had any MRI’s, X-ray’s, CT scan’s, etc. for the body part you have made an appointment for, please bring them with you.

How do I get in touch with my medical team if I have more questions?

The most efficient way to contact the office at 970-262-7400.

Can I see one doctor for multiple injuries or problems?

It is recommended that you schedule an appointment for the most severe problem first. Your insurance may require further documentation (referral) and if seen for multiple body parts may not be covered by your insurance.

What do I need to do to prepare for my appointment?

Bring a photo I.D. and your insurance card. This will be collected by our front desk upon check in.

Be aware of your copay amount that is required by your insurance. We are considered a specialist and this will be collected at the time of each visit. If you have questions about what your copay amount is, contact your insurance company. This number is usually located on the back of the card.

If possible, bring additional family members or friends to your visit. A lot of information is covered and it is helpful to have additional support.

Bring a list of all medications you are currently taking, including any over the counter vitamins and supplements.

Make a list of questions to ask your doctor.

What is the best way to get a refill on my medication?

Requests for medication refills or changes in a medication can be made by calling our prescription line at 970-262-7400.

Refills on narcotic pain medications require that a prescription be written and then picked up at one of our offices by the patient, family member, or friend. That person must be at least 18 years old, and bring with them a valid photo ID. Medications cannot be refilled or changed after hours or on the weekend.