Though the purpose of this blog is to educate, inform, and connect with our patients, I would like to take this unique opportunity to provide an insider look at what being a patient at OAW really means.
It pains me to say that I am not invincible and apparently my ligaments can rupture just as easily as anyone else’s. So there I was on a Monday night with what I was sure was a knee that no longer had an ACL (I was correct). The only positive thought in my head was, “At least I know a guy.” Truth be told, I know a whole bunch of them. In fact, the most difficult part of this process has been choosing just one of the spectacular surgeons here at OAW because I would trust each and every one of them with my beloved left knee.
I have to give my sincere appreciation to the staff here at OAW. From the moment I walked in the doors, I was treated like every other patient. No one assumed that I knew what each form meant or how it needed to be completed. No one assumed that I knew what I was signing or what HIPPA is. I was escorted back to my room in an expedient fashion and treated professionally in my care. The reason for obtaining x-rays was explained. My physical examination was prompt and thorough. Our MRI department was no different from our clinical staff in their show of care, confirmation of comfort, and display of professionalism. Our Durable Medical Equipment store had a chance to show off their expertise and fitting capabilities as well. They took their time determining my insurance coverage and fitting my brace so it would appropriately fit my swollen knee but not be too large on my not-so-swollen quadriceps muscle.
Once my MRI was completed and my results were obtained, my surgeon sat me down and explained every aspect of surgery to me in full detail. He used models and drew pictures despite knowing that I already knew what was coming down the pipe. He mapped out different scenarios and explained the post-operative care that would follow. He walked me through the pertinent images of my MRI and my x-rays to really put all of the pieces together.
During my pre-surgical phone call with a member of The Orthopaedic Surgery Center, the nurse was compassionate and thorough in her explanation of how the day of surgery would unfold. She didn’t assume that I know what happens on that side of the building. She made sure all of my questions were answered and even took time to ask me how the injury occurred and how I was doing in general.
Upon getting all the ducks in a row, I was still riding the rollercoaster of emotions that comes with sustaining an injury that requires surgical intervention, but I couldn’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of pride in my place of employment. I know that the care I received was what we provide each and every patient who walks through our doors, and I am immensely proud to be a member of this team. I know the sympathy was sincere. I know the care was of the highest quality. I know that when we say ‘There is a difference at OAW’ there actually IS a difference in the elite care we provide to our patients. We are truly striving to provide the kind of care that makes a patient feel like part of a family. When the wounds have healed and the grafts have taken, I am excited to get back in the trenches providing this kind of care for all of you.
This blog is written by one of our very own-Morgan. She is a certified athletic trainer working as a medical assistant with our providers each and every day in our clinic. She obtained a bachelor's degree in athletic training from Carroll University in Waukesha and a master's degree in Kinesiology from Michigan State University. She is excited to bring you updates and information about the happenings at OAW.