What may I expect on my first visit with Dr. Burgess?
Our M.A. will bring you into an exam room and obtain a complete history prior to seeing the doctor. Your attention to detail in the forms you filled out will improve our accuracy. The first time you see Dr. Burgess, x-rays will be taken at the office. You are welcome to bring x-rays or films on CD that are of good diagnostic quality and are less than three months old for chronic conditions and less than 3 days old for recent injuries. We may still need to take additional views, depending upon Dr. Burgess' assessment. Dr. Burgess will then complete your evaluation and discuss his findings with you. If additional testing or surgery is recommended, scheduling those procedures will be discussed with you. You may want to bring something of interest on your appointment day. Emergencies do happen in a surgical practice and at times, your appointment time may run over.
Where does Dr. Burgess perform his surgeries?
Dr. Burgess performs surgery at Banner Union Hills Surgery Center in Glendale and Banner Surgicenter of America in downtown Phoenix and Desert Ridge. He is on staff at John C. Lincoln Deer Valley Hospital and Banner Estrella Medical Center, Warner Parl Surgery Center and Desert Ridge Surgicenter.
What arrangements will take place when additional testing is required?
When it is determined that additional testing is required before proceeding forward with your treatment, a team member will begin the necessary paperwork. Our diagnostic coordinator, will verify your insurance benefits, determine where you need to go for your testing, and work with you to schedule an appointment. Please remember, it is often out of our control when the testing center is able to schedule your study, but efforts will be made to expedite your care. The results of the testing must be sent to our office before we can discuss the results. Please confirm the receipt of your results before setting your follow-up appointment. If it is possible, please bring copies of your test or film with you if the testing facility provides them.
What arrangements will take place if surgery is required?
When it is determined that you will require surgery, a consent form will be reviewed with you in the office, and and information packet will be provided, and any questions answered. A booking sheet will be given to the surgical coordinator. She will verify your insurance benefits, determine which facility is appropriate, and schedule your surgery date. She will contact you with the arrangements. A few days before your operation, she will notify you with a more specific time. Please understand that surgical times do change based on emergency add-ons, patients with specific medical conditions, and special equipment needs.
What can I expect Post-operatively?
You will be given home going instructions on the day of surgery including a prescription for pain control. You will need to schedule a follow-up appointment with Dr. Burgess' office about a week after your procedure. At that time Dr. Burgess' P.A. will check your wound and change your post-operative dressing. Any new bandages, splints or casts will be provided. You may require an X-ray. For some procedures, you may have a custom splint fabricated by the Hand Therapist. If at any time prior to your first post-op appointment you experience any problems, please call the office for assistance.
Will I require Therapy after Surgery?
The need for therapy is quite variable both in patients treated non-surgically and surgically. Dr. Burgess will be able to better predict whether your specific condition will require the services of a hand therapist. If therapy is prescribed, your participation is expected and will play a critical role in maximizing your post-op recovery and return to normal function.
To whom do I speak if I have questions regarding my orthopedic status?
If at any time you have questions regarding your care, please call the office and ask to be connected to the P.A. She will make every effort to return you call that day and certainly within 24 hours. For any medical emergencies dial 911.
What about medication refills or Forms?
Prescriptions are refilled only on weekdays. Have your prescription and pharmacy information available. Pain medications will be given post-operatively and on a limited basis thereafter. You will be gradually weaned off your pain medications. Narcotic pain medications are not prescribed to non-surgical patients. Please allow 24 hours for all medication refills. Any requests received after 2 p.m. will be refilled on the following business day.
To whom do I speak if I have questions regarding my billing?
Your account representative and is available to answer your insurance questions and to discuss all of your billing concerns. Please call 602-375-5776.
Does Dr. Burgess recommend a website where I can learn more about my condition?
Dr. Burgess has been complemented on his ability to explain a patient's condition. He enjoys educating patients regarding their healthcare but also recognizes it may not all sink in on the first visit. Dr. Burgess recommends you visit Uwww.assh.orgU as a source of continuing education. Under Patients and Public click on Hand Conditions.
To whom do I speak if I am calling to schedule an appointment?
If an appointment is needed, please call 602-298-1188 for the Phoenix office and 480-827-8041 for the East Valley location.
How can I be heard regarding my experience with Desert Orthopedic Hand Center?
We are very interested in understanding how we can provide you a better experience while meeting your health care needs. Please, let us know what we are doing right, and of course, what we can do better. Each exam room offers an opportunity to comment on specific staff members or for an anonymous comment please see our website at www.deserthandcenter.com
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