Frequently Asked Questions
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Referral requirements depend on your insurance plan.
Patients with HMO insurance plans typically require a referral and authorization from their Primary Care Physician (PCP) before seeing an orthopedic specialist. Patients with PPO plans generally do not need a referral.
If you are unsure whether a referral is required, we recommend contacting your insurance carrier before your appointment.
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Orthopedic Center of Venice accepts many major insurance plans, including:
United Healthcare
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Humana
Aetna
Cigna
Veterans Affairs
Workers' Compensation
Auto Insurance Claims
Insurance participation may vary by plan. We encourage patients to verify coverage directly with their insurance provider prior to their appointment.
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We strive to see patients as -quickly as possible. In many cases, appointments are available within the same week.
Depending on the nature and severity of your condition, same-day appointments may also be available.
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Orthopedic Center of Venice treats a wide range of orthopedic injuries and conditions, including:
Joint pain and arthritis
Sports injuries
Fractures and broken bones
ACL tears
Meniscus tears
Rotator cuff tears
Labral tears
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Cubital tunnel syndrome
Tendon and ligament injuries
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Our physicians perform surgery at several affiliated hospitals throughout Venice, Sarasota, and Englewood, including:
Sarasota Memorial Hospital
Sarasota Memorial Hospital – Venice
HCA Florida Sarasota Doctors Hospital
Englewood Community Hospital
Dr. Collins also performs select outpatient orthopedic procedures at Premier Surgery Center when appropriate.
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Recovery time varies depending on the procedure performed and the individual patient.
Many orthopedic procedures require several weeks to several months for full recovery. Joint replacement surgery and certain sports medicine procedures may require physical therapy and continued rehabilitation.
Your surgeon will discuss expected recovery timelines during your consultation.
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You can reach us anytime via our contact page or email. We aim to respond quickly—usually within one business day.
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Your first appointment may include:
Review of your medical history
Physical examination
In-office X-rays, if needed
Review of any prior imaging
Discussion of diagnosis and treatment options
Our providers will work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific condition and goals.
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Yes. Whenever appropriate, we begin with conservative treatment options before considering surgery.
Non-surgical treatments may include:
Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE)
Injections
Medications
Steroid dose packs
Activity modification
Bracing
Treatment recommendations are based on your diagnosis, symptoms, and overall health.
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Telehealth appointments may be available on a limited, case-by-case basis when appropriate.
Please contact our office to discuss your specific situation and determine whether a virtual visit is available.
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Yes. Dr. Gonzalez is fluent in Spanish and provides orthopedic care for Spanish-speaking patients. Our team also includes a Spanish-speaking X-ray technician.
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You should contact an orthopedic specialist if you experience:
Persistent joint pain
Swelling
Suspected fracture
Sports-related injury
Arthritis symptoms
Signs of infection
Redness or warmth around an injured area
Difficulty moving a joint
Pain that interferes with daily activities
Early evaluation can often help prevent worsening symptoms and support faster recovery.