FAQs
Save time in the office by completing your health history information on our patient portal.
- The default username is your email address.
- If you have difficulty accessing your online portal, email mosfrontdesk@cfaortho.com for assistance.
- All office notes are uploaded to the patient portal upon completion.
- You may contact us by sending messages through the patient portal.
- Please arrive 10-15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time.
What information do I need to bring for my first appointment?
- Insurance card
- Photo ID
- Referral letter (if required)
- Copies of relevant medical records (Surgical reports, MRI/Xray/CT reports, and copies of the imaging on a disc)
- List of your current medications with dosage and frequency
What should I expect at my first appointment?
Our clinical staff will begin your appointment by taking a thorough history and learning about the reason for your visit. We have an X-ray machine in our office and will take images, if necessary for confirming your diagnosis. Your provider will perform a physical examination, review the imaging with you, and thoroughly explain your diagnosis and treatment plan.
How long will the appointment take?
At The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics: Maryland Orthopedic Specialists Division, we do our absolute best to be respectful of our patients’ time. You can expect your first appointment to take approximately 45 minutes. It is helpful if you complete or update the patient portal information before your appointment. This will save you time during the check-in process.
Do I need an MRI?
An MRI is a helpful tool for diagnosing complex orthopedic conditions. Your provider may order an MRI if it is necessary to further investigate your diagnosis to determine if surgery is an appropriate next step. We will provide you with a list of our preferred imaging facilities if an MRI is ordered.
If surgery is necessary, how long does it take to schedule?
You and your provider will determine an appropriate timeline for scheduling your surgery. If you wish to have it completed as soon as possible, we can normally accommodate your request within 1 month. It may be sooner depending on physician availability.
Where will the surgery take place?
Our providers perform surgery at a few local facilities.
Dr. James Gardiner | Shady Grove Adventist Medical Center Surgery Center of Chevy Chase |
Dr. Christopher Raffo | Shady Grove Adventist Medical Center Surgery Center of Chevy Chase |
Dr. Peter Fitzgibbons | John Hopkins Suburban Hospital Massachusetts Avenue Surgery Center |
Dr. Gary Feldman | Shady Grove Adventist Medical Center Surgery Center of Chevy Chase |
Dr. John Christoforetti | Shady Grove Adventist Medical Center Surgery Center of Chevy Chase |
What is a Physician Assistant?
Jessica O’Keefe and Laura Baker are board-certified physician assistants who work as an extension of our physicians to provide excellent healthcare. Jessica and Laura are licensed clinicians who diagnose and treat patients in the clinic, as well as assist in the operating room.
Who do your providers treat?
Our orthopedic staff members have the expertise to treat patients of all ages (from 0-100+). Whether you are an athlete, a weekend warrior, or doing your best to age gracefully, we can help with your orthopedic needs.
What if I don’t speak English?
We provide a virtual translation service (video and audio) to make sure our non-English speaking patients are fully understood, their care plan was explained to them clearly, and their questions are answered appropriately.
Is Telehealth an option?
Our providers utilize virtual appointments on a very limited basis. There are certain situations where it may be necessary, but orthopedic conditions are best evaluated in-person in order to provide the most accurate diagnosis and care plan. Our physician assistants use an online Telehealth platform routinely for our pre-operative appointments for patients preparing to have surgery.
What if I need a brace or a cast?
Our offices are fully stocked with the most common durable medical equipment our patients often need. Our clinical staff is trained in fitting and dispensing this equipment. They will make sure your brace fits appropriately and that you are comfortable removing and applying it. Most of the durable medical equipment our offices use can be billed through your insurance. We also can apply and remove casts in our offices.
Answers to Your Orthopedic FAQs at The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics: Maryland Orthopedic Specialists Division in Montgomery County, Maryland
For any other questions, reach out to our representatives by contacting The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics: Maryland Orthopedic Specialists Division at (301) 515-0900. We look forward to serving you soon.