Orthopedics
Corpus Christi: (361) 694-5057; fax (361) 808-2067
McAllen: (956) 688-1200; fax (361) 808-2067
Brownsville: (956) 698-8600; fax (361) 808-2067
Fax information required by referring physician:
- DCH patient referral form (script signed by PCP)
- Insurance/Medicaid card (front and back)
- Authorization/referral number, number of visits
- Script with diagnosis/reason for referral and doctor’s signature
- X-ray and/or lab studies or notation stating studies done at DCH. If study done outside of DCH, please bring actual films or image CD.
- Progress notes (Notes from PCP, other specialist, previous surgeries or procedures, etc.)
Note: The DCH Orthopedic Clinic staff will contact the referring physician’s office after all information is received and reviewed.
Patient must bring to appointment:
- Patient must be accompanied by parent/guardian (with ID) who knows the history
- Immunization card
- List of current medications
| Referring diagnosis | Suggested work-up and initial management | When to refer |
|---|---|---|
| Back pain | X-ray Normal X-rays - course of therapy or further work-up |
Abnormal findings |
| Scoliosis | X-ray | Curve greater than 10 degrees |
| Leg length discrepancy | X-ray | Discrepancy greater than 2cm |
| Bowlegs/Genu varum | X-ray no earlier than 2 years of age | Abnormal findings |
| Intoeing Internal tibial torsion Femoral anteversion |
Observation until 4 years of age Observation until 10 years of age |
Unable to perform daily activities |
| Limping (acute) | X-Ray, lab (CBC, ESR, CRP) | Once studies are completed |
| Abnormal gait / toe walking / dragging of extremity / limping (chronic) |
Must send for Neurology evaluation | Once Neurology evaluation is completed |