Preparing for your visit
What to bring, what happens at the first appointment, and how the plan is made.
Do I need a referral to see Dr. Plancher?
Most people don't need one to schedule, though many patients reach this practice through a referral from another physician.
If your insurance plan requires a referral for an orthopedic visit, check with your plan or call the office ahead of time so the paperwork is ready.
What should I bring to my first visit?
Bring a photo ID, your insurance card, and a current list of medications.
If you've already had imaging done, such as an X-ray or an MRI (a scan that shows soft tissue like ligaments and cartilage) of the knee, shoulder, or hand and wrist, bring copies or have the facility send them ahead of your visit. If another physician referred you, bring any notes or paperwork from that visit as well.
What happens during the appointment?
You'll first talk with clinical staff about your history and symptoms, then be examined by Dr. Plancher.
Dr. Plancher completed fellowship training, additional specialized training taken after residency, in shoulder and knee reconstruction and sports medicine at The Steadman-Hawkins Clinic in Vail, Colorado, and in hand and microvascular surgery at The Indiana Hand Center in Indianapolis, Indiana. The exam reflects that focus: questions and physical tests center on the knee, the shoulder, the hand and wrist, or a sports-related injury, and are aimed at how the injury happened, what makes it better or worse, and how it affects your daily activity.
Will I need imaging or tests at my first visit?
Not always. An X-ray can sometimes be taken the same day if the injury involves the knee or shoulder.
Other imaging, such as an MRI, is usually scheduled as a separate appointment when more detail on soft tissue is needed. Whether either is needed depends on what the exam shows.
What happens after my first visit?
You'll leave with a plan, not just a diagnosis.
Depending on what the exam finds, that plan may include at-home care, physical therapy, a brace, or a conversation about surgical options if non-surgical steps aren't likely to help. Dr. Plancher will explain what he found and what the next step is before you leave.
Who do I call with questions before my appointment?
Call the office. Staff can confirm referral and insurance requirements, tell you what records to bring, and answer scheduling questions ahead of your visit.
- 01Request a visitCall the office or use the booking link to choose a time.
- 02Bring your recordsImaging, prior reports and a medication list help make the first visit useful.
- 03Examination and discussionAn exam and a plain explanation of what is going on.
- 04Decide togetherThe options are laid out so you can choose the plan that fits.
Ready to talk about your hand, knee, shoulder, elbow and wrist?
Call the office or request an appointment. Accepting new patients.