To our orthopaedic surgery patients & their families:

These are unprecedented times, and we want all our patients and their families to know that we are here for you.

Over the last several weeks, we have been making adjustments to clinic schedules and surgical schedules. Here are some options for care at this time. We are available to answer and address any concerns you may have.

Virtual Care Visits

All patients (NEW or ESTABLISHED) can make a virtual visit appointment or phone call with our providers. Call the specific service you would like an appointment with. The virtual visit is a good way to evaluate new injuries or recurrent pain, and check-in with your provider about your current condition. Discussions about surgical options also can begin in this environment. Urgent in-person evaluations can be scheduled, if needed, based on these initial virtual visits. New patients must register (1-866-211-6588) before an any appointment can be made. You must enroll in Patient Gateway in order to have a virtual visit.

In-Person Clinical Care

For both patient and provider safety, the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery has temporarily halted non-urgent in-person visits and converted all visits where possible to virtual visits or phone calls. We will continue to care for our patients with in-person clinical care when necessary (urgent issues). All patients will be screened on the phone and upon entering clinics for cough, shortness of breath, fever, and nausea/vomiting/diarrhea. Providers will then determine the best course of action for patients who present with COVID-19 symptoms.

Surgery

To comply with current federal and state regulations regarding COVID-19, the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery has canceled all surgeries except those deemed urgent. However, if you are considering surgery, we encourage you to consult with one of our surgeons through a Virtual Care Visit so that we can begin to evaluate your needs and schedule you for surgery on a later date.

Unfortunately, we do not know when hospital operations will return to normal to reschedule postponed surgeries and clinic visits. We will notify you as soon as possible. Until then follow federal, state and CDC guidelines. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we all proceed together through this COVID-19 situation.

Thank you for being part of our community. We will continue to share information as it becomes available to us. Please reach out with any questions or concerns.

With gratitude,

Mitch Harris, MD
Chief, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery

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