FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn More About Muir Orthopaedic Specialists

It is our goal to provide our patients with the information needed to feel confident. We recognize like many of our patients you have questions. Get the answers to the most frequently asked questions asked by our patients.

We know that it is only by providing superior service in a caring and compassionate manner that we can earn your trust and become your provider of choice. If you have a question that is not answered here, please call a patient assistance specialist or contact us online.

Q: What are the hours of operation?

Monday through Thursday: 8:00 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Q: How do I make an appointment?

Please call or request an appointment online.

When scheduling for a child under 18, please note that minors must be accompanied by an adult. For follow-up visits, if your doctor tells you to come back within a few weeks, it is advisable to make that appointment before you leave the office, so we can ensure your appointment is within the suggested time period.

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.

There will be new patient paperwork to complete prior to your appointment. We encourage you to complete the New Patient Checklist prior to your appointment to expedite your check-in process upon arrival. If you are unable to do so, please arrive 15-20 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time to complete the new patient forms our office will need to have on file.

Q: How do I get to the Walnut Creek, San Ramon, Concord, or Brentwood offices?

Please see our Locations page.

Q: Do you accept assignment for Medicare?

Yes, all of the providers at Muir Orthopaedic Specialists participate in the Medicare program.

Q: Do you accept Workers Compensation cases?

Yes. Muir Orthopaedic Specialists has 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, which we have listed on our Insurance page. 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:

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.