Frequently Asked Questions Columbus Hand Therapy, LLC
3400 Olentangy River Road, Suite 201
Columbus, Ohio 43202
614 262-0907
 
How long does it take to get in for an appointment?
We offer prompt scheduling of an appointment. We will work to have you seen by our specialists as quickly as possible. An appointment can be scheduled by calling our office at: (614) 262-0907, Monday through Thursday between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m and Friday between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

What do I need to bring to my first appointment?
Some paperwork will be required at your first appointment. We ask that you arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled time. Bring your insurance cards, a list of your medications, and information about your medical and surgical history. You are also invited to print a copy of our admission form, complete it at home, and bring to your first appointment.

What types of problems do you treat?
  • traumatic injuries: amputations, fractures, injuries to tendons, nerves, or blood vessels, crush injuries
  • arthritis problems: rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis of the upper extremity
  • cumulative trauma disorders: carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, sprains and strains of the upper extremity
  • congenital hand deformities: webbed fingers (syndactyly), radial clubhand, absent (aplastic) thumb
  • lower extremity tissue and nerve injuries: soft-tissue defects or open wounds needing a microsurgical repair, flap, or graft
  • sports injuries to the hand and upper extremity

Is surgery the only treatment option?
The field of Hand Surgery deals with both the surgical and non-surgical treatment of upper extremity injuries or conditions. The physicians at Hand and Microsurgery Associates will discuss all of the treatment options with you.

Do you treat children?
Absolutely. From congenital hand deformities to injuries and trauma to the upper extremity, the specialized training of these physicians is exactly what you want for your child. Early consultation with a Hand Surgeon is an important part of the treatment process for the child born with a hand deformity.

What is microsurgery?
Microsurgery involves use of a high powered microscope during surgery to repair very small structures which are often thinner than a human hair. The microscope is used to repair tiny blood vessels or nerves damaged during injury or trauma.

Do you treat anything other than the upper extremity?
Yes. Many parts of the body can suffer amputation or have soft tissue defects due to trauma. The microvascular training and expertise of a Hand Surgeon increases the opportunity of successful outcomes.

If I need surgery, where would it be done?
The physicians of Hand and Microsurgery Associates are affiliated with Riverside Methodist Hospital and The Ohio State University Medical Center, both located in Columbus, Ohio. Outpatient surgeries are also done at the Upper Arlington Surgery Center, Upper Arlington, Ohio.

Do I need a referral?
If your insurance provider requires that you have a referral, it is your responsibility to obtain it. We ask that a referral is received in the office prior to your first appointment.

Why are you sending me to therapy?
There are many reasons why you may benefit from therapy. Sometimes, therapy is ordered for preventative, non-operative, or conservative treatment of hand conditions. Following injury or surgery, it is important to relearn finger or hand movements which had been routine. Surgery is the start of recovery, but intensive therapy may be necessary to regain maximum function of your hand. This is best achieved with early, appropriate therapy.

How can I start therapy so soon after surgery?
Your physician will determine when you need to begin therapy. Often, this is within days of your surgery. Your first visit may include removal of your dressing, inspection and cleaning of your wounds, and making a protective splint for you. Also, you may begin gentle exercises right away.

Do I have to come here for therapy? I live out of town.
Beginning your therapy at Columbus Hand Therapy assures that you are treated by specialists in hand care. Our Occupational and Physical Therapists are Certified Hand Therapists. Often your physician will also see you during your therapy session. When it is appropriate for you to be treated by a therapist who is a non-specialist, your physician will refer you to someone closer to home.

Does Columbus Hand Therapy offer work hardening, FCE, or on-site job analysis?
We do not. We would be happy to suggest someone that does provide those services.

Does my health insurance cover all of your services?
Health insurance varies widely. Not all policies cover the same type of service. We can help you with questions to ask your insurance provider to allow you access to the expert care you deserve. We will bill your insurance provider for your care.

What is your payment policy?
Payment for services is due at the time of your visit. All co-payments will be collected at the time of service. For patients covered by health insurance plans for which we are not in-network providers, payment in full will be expected on your service date.

If you are unable to pay on the day you receive services from our Specialists, you will be able to discuss the situation with our Billing Office. We will make every effort to accommodate unusual circumstances.

What if my injury is covered by Worker’s Compensation?
If you believe Worker’s Compensation is responsible for your care, please ask your employer to send the forms to our office as soon as possible. Although you believe your injury is work related, we will still require you to provide us with all private health insurance information.

What if I have a question about my bill?
Please call the office, (614) 262-0907, during office hours regarding billing questions. One of our Billing Specialists will be happy to speak with you.

What if my attorney or insurance company needs a copy of my medical record?
All requests for medical records must be submitted in writing along with proper authorization. In accordance with local policy, a fee will be charged. Requests can be faxed to (614) 262-0720. Please make sure your mailing address is included.