Multi-speciality group of seven physicians, six orthopedic surgeons and a family practice physicians specializing in sports medicine. Our group offers on site Physical and Occupational Therapy, MRI scanning and durable medical equipment. Our surgeons have surgical privileges at Gulf Coast Medical Center, Panama City Surgery Center and Northwest Florida Surgical Center.
Southern Orthopedic Specialists, PA FAQ
Q: What are your office hours?
A: Office Hours
Monday-Thursday: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Physical Therapy Department
Monday-Thursday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Q: Where are you located?
A: We are located at 1827 Harrison Ave Panama City Florida
Q: What are the specialties for each doctor?
A: Dr. Combs – Knee Replacement Surgery, Diagnosis and Non-Operative treatment for all orthopedic problems
Dr. Dietrich – Orthopedic & Sports Medicine, Joint Replacement Surgery
Dr. Gaiser – Orthopedic and Spine Surgeon
Dr. Malik – Orthopedic Surgeon/Sports Medicine – Specialties Shoulders & Knees
Dr. McLoughlin – Orthopedic and Spine Surgery
Dr. Mitchell – Orthopedic, Sports Medicine & Joint Replacement, Pediatric treatment
Dr. Noble – Family Practice/Non-Operative Sports Medicine
Q: Do I need a referral?
A: A referral may also be a requirement of your insurance plan. If you are unsure if your plan requires a referral, please contact your insurance company.
Q: What types of insurance do you accept?
A: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Medicare, Tricare, United Healthcare, Cigna and many others. Please contact the member services department for your insurance to verify our physicians participate in your particular plan.
Q: Will I have to pay a co-pay?
A: Yes, co-pays are collected at the time of service. Your co-pay is generally printed on your insurance card. If you are unsure of the amount of your co-pay, please contact your insurance company.
Q: What is your payment policy?
A: If you have valid insurance, we will collect any co-pay, con-insurance and/or deductible at the time of service and file your insurance. Otherwise, payment is due at the time of service. If you have questions or special concerns regarding payment at the time of service, please contact our office.
Q: What should I bring with me for my appointment?
A: Picture ID and insurance card, list of current medications, and completed patient forms that are available for download on our website.
Q: Do you fill out disability forms?
A: We will complete routine forms you bring to the office. There is a fee associated with this service.
Q: Are physician assistants used in surgery?
A: Yes. Certain surgical procedures require a surgical assistant. Most often, a physician will use the services of a physician extender/assistant. Insurance plans vary in how they cover the surgical services of a physician assistant. We urge you to contact your insurance company for clarification of coverage for this type of provider before surgery. This will prevent confusion should you receive an invoice from our office after surgery.
Q: What is an MRI?
A: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic imaging technology that uses a strong magnet and radiofrequency waves to produce pictures or "images" of the inside of the body. It does not use radiation. Because an MRI allows your doctor to see inside your body from any angle with great clarity, it gives doctors a wealth of information quickly and without surgery.
Q: Is there anything I must do to prepare for my MRI scan?
A: No special preparation is needed for your MRI examination. In most cases, you may follow your normal routine prior to your scan. You may eat and drink normally and take any prescriptions medications as usual.
Q: How long will my MRI scan take?
A: The length of your exam is dependent on the type of study performed. Most MRI exams are completed between 30-60 minutes. If you have multiple scans, the exam could last longer.
Q: When should I arrive for my MRI?
A: You should arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time, with all the necessary paperwork given to you by your physicians’ office completed.
Q: Will I need to make payment arrangements prior to the MRI?
A: If you have provided us with accurate insurance information, we will make every effort to have the procedure pre-certified and contact you prior to your appointment. Based on your insurance coverage and deductible amount, you may be required to pay a deposit at the time of service. If a member of our MRI or Billing department has not contacted you regarding payment arrangements, please contact them at 850-785-4344.
Q: How long will it be before the results from the MRI procedure are available?
A: Typically, it takes 24 – 48 hours to receive the report. You will need to contact your physician directly for these results.
Q: Can I have someone in the MRI room with me during the procedure?
A: Yes. You may have one visitor in the room. The visitor will be asked to complete a questionnaire.
Q: Is there any radiation involved with a MRI?
A: No, there is no radiation involved with a MRI.
Q: Can the technician hear me if I need them?
A: Yes, each room is equipped with speakers. You may talk to the MRI technician, and he/she can hear you.
Q: What is HIPAA ?
A: Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 ( HIPAA) requires physicians and other healthcare providers who conduct electronic transactions and payors to adopt certain security measures to safeguard patients health information.
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