At Southwest Orthopedic Associates, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive medical care to patients involved in accidents who struggle to access the care they need. Our team of experienced physicians specializes in treating a wide range of accident-related injuries, ensuring each patient receives personalized and effective care. With onsite physical therapy and a surgery center, patients are able to be treated conveniently at one location.
We understand the many challenges that come with navigating the aftermath of an accident, including dealing with insurance claims and financial constraints. To assist, we offer a streamlined process to facilitate immediate and ongoing medical treatment, without the upfront costs.
Our goal is to alleviate the emotional and physical burden of our patients, allowing them to focus on their recovery while we handle the complexities of their medical needs.
At Southwest Orthopedic Associates, your health and well-being are our top priority, and we are committed to being your trusted partner on the road to recovery.
When our team works with attorneys, particularly in personal injury cases, our role is crucial in helping to establish the extent of a client’s injury, the necessary treatments, and the long-term prognosis. Here’s a breakdown of how these relationships work:
1- Medical Evaluation and Documentation
Initial Assessment: Our clinical team provides a thorough evaluation of the injury, including reviewing medical history, conducting physical exams, and ordering diagnostic tests (e.g., X-rays, MRIs and other testing).
Medical Reports: The team documents our findings in a detailed medical report. This includes the nature of the injury, treatments needed, potential for recovery, and whether the injury is permanent or temporary. These reports are critical evidence in personal injury cases.
2- Treatment and Recovery Plans
Immediate Care: The clinical team may recommend treatments such as immobilization (casting or splinting), physical therapy or surgical interventions.
Rehabilitation: A significant part of the evaluation is establishing a rehabilitation plan, which may include physical therapy, follow-up appointments and possible future surgeries.
Long-Term Impact: Dr. Daniels and his team consider the potential for chronic pain, permanent disability, or reduced function, particularly if the injury leads to arthritis, joint instability, or mobility restrictions.
Depositions: In many cases, Dr. Daniels may be called to provide depositions, which are out-of-court sworn statements about the injury. Dr. Daniels explains the mechanics of the injury and the medical care provided.
Court Testimony: If requested by the attorney, Dr. Daniels can testify in court as an expert witness. He explains complex medical details in a way that judges and juries can understand, helping to establish causation and the severity of the injury.
Opinion on Future Care: Attorneys may rely on Dr. Daniels expert opinion regarding future medical needs, potential surgeries, ongoing treatments, rehabilitation, and how the injury could impact the patient’s ability to work.
4- Collaboration with Attorneys
Medical Leins: In personal injury cases, we often agree to treat patients with a medical lien (Letter of Protection) from the attorney, meaning we receive payment from the eventual settlement or court judgment. This arrangement allows patients to receive necessary treatment while the legal process unfolds.
Communication: Our team communicates with the legal team to ensure they are up-to-date on the medical aspects of the case, including progress reports and updates of the patient’s conditions or surgeries.
In personal Injury cases, orthopedic evaluations provide the foundation for understanding the medical aspects of the claim, from the injury’s cause to the necessary treatments and long-term effects. These evaluations often make or break a personal injury case because they offer critical insights into the extent of damage and help justify the requested compensation.