Frequently Asked Questions
What is a physician assistant (PA)?
Physician assistants (PAs) practice medicine under the supervision of physicians and surgeons. PAs are formally trained to provide diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive health care services, as delegated by a physician. Working as members of the health care team, they take medical histories, examine and treat patients, order and interpret laboratory tests and x rays, and make diagnoses. They also treat minor injuries, by suturing, splinting, and casting. PAs record progress notes, instruct and counsel patients, and order or carry out therapy. In 48 States and the District of Columbia, physician assistants may prescribe some medications. In some establishments, a PA is responsible for managerial duties, such as ordering medical supplies or equipment and supervising technicians and assistants.
What is a primary care sports medicine physician?
Sports medicine physicians are members of the sports medicine team that care for athletes. Although they commonly serve as team physicians, they treat all athletes varying in age, sport, and skill level (recreational to elite professional). Primary care sports medicine physicians are primary care physicians (Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Emergency Medicine or Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation). Beyond this primary specialty, they have advanced training (1-2 years) in sports medicine. After completing this training and an additional examination, they are awarded a certificate of added qualification (CAQ) in primary care sports medicine, designating them as a specialist in this field.
They are trained extensively in musculoskeletal medicine. In addition, they are trained in non-musculoskeletal conditions affecting athletes and non-athletes. This includes traumatic brain injuries (concussions), medical conditions in the athlete, nutrition/supplements, performance issues, exercise prescriptions for all patients (especially those with underlying medical conditions), pre-participation physicals, decisions on return to play, injury prevention, and healthy lifestyle promotion.
Since the majority of musculoskeletal and sports injuries (acute and overuse injuries) do not require surgery, primary care sports medicine physicians are well trained to provide medical care and determine if a surgical referral is needed. With their close working relationship with orthopedic surgeons, primary care sports medicine physicians commonly can expedite referrals to an orthopedic/sports surgeon.
Do you have the shingles vaccine?
Yes, the shingles vaccine called Zostavax is available upon request. When making your appointment, please let us know your are interested in having the vaccination. The vaccine has been shown to signficantly reduce the risk of developing shingles. It is recommended for those 60 years of age and older. It it indicated for the prevention of shingles, not the treatment of shingles.
I have a question about my bill. Who should I call?
If you have any questions regarding your account, please call our office at 630-236-4270.
