Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the hours of operation?
Our hours vary. To check per location, visit our locations page
Q: How do I make an appointment?
Please call us on 925-939-8585
Q: Do you have Spanish-speaking receptionists?
Yes, several of our receptionists speak Spanish.
Q: What information will the appointment scheduler need when I call?
- Your full name
- Date of Birth
- Social Security number
- Insurance Carrier details
- Telephone Number
- Description of your symptoms
Q: How quickly can I get an appointment?
We aim to schedule you for the first available appointment with our providers. For visits that are time sensitive and of an urgent nature, we schedule with a provider on the same day or offer our specialty urgent care services to get you scheduled when you need us the most.
Q: How long will my appointment last?
As a new patient, your first appointment may last up to an hour.
Q: Do you accept assignment for Medicare?
Yes, the providers at Golden State Orthopedics & Spine participate in the Medicare program.
Q: Do you accept Workers Compensation cases?
Yes. We a comprehensive workers compensation program in place. For more details, please visit our Workers Compensation page.
Q: How do I get a refill on my medication?
Contact your local pharmacy and have them submit a refill request to our office. Refills are approved during regular business hours Monday through Friday. Please allow at least a 24-hour turnaround time. Refills requested on Friday afternoons will NOT be filled until Monday.
Q: What insurance do you accept?
We are contracted with most major insurance carriers. It is recommended that you contact your insurance company to confirm that we are in-network for your specific plan.
Q: Where is surgery performed?
Surgery is performed at the following locations:
- Aspen Surgery Center
- John Muir Medical Center – Concord and Walnut Creek Campuses
- Premier Surgery Center
- San Ramon Regional ASC
- San Ramon Regional Medical Center
- Sequoia Surgical Pavilion
- Webster Outpatient Surgery Center
Q: When do I need to worry about the possibility of infection after surgery?
If you experience any of the following:
- Sustained fever over 101 degrees
- Redness, swelling, and warmth at surgery site
- Increased pain
- Feeling sick
- Drainage of pus from the wound
Q: How do I know if I have a fracture or not?
The following symptoms are indicative of a fracture:
- Swelling
- Pain
- Deformity
- Difficulty using arm or leg i.e.: inability to bear weight or lift using arm
Q: What are the side effects of cortisone?
Approximately 2-5% of patients may experience dizziness and facial flushing. Very rarely patients may have an unknown allergy to cortisone and have an anaphylactic reaction. Diabetics can have elevated glucose levels temporarily.
Q: For an acute joint injury should I use ice or heat?
Typically, ice is recommended for acute joint injuries. Heat works well for back injuries and chronic conditions. Both ice (15-minute application) and moderate heat (15-minute application) may be used without fear of doing harm.
Q: What should I do if my cast gets wet?
A hairdryer on zero heat may help dry the cast. If not, call for an appointment to get it changed.