What is the risk of not keeping Dr. appts. with a broken bone?

Question

I have a broken bone in my lower leg..I am 60 yr old, I have no insurance and the surgeon I see charges 144.00 per visit of which I must pay on the spot..All they are doing for me is keeping a hinged knee brace on me and keeping me non wieght-bearing. I have no swelling, not much pain, and from what I have read and heard, the bone must heal itself..so I am thinking of not keeping anymore doctor visits, unless I have a complication..Stupid, it sounds, but with no income for 8 weeks to 12 weeks, I have no choice..I am a widow with no outside help. what do you think? should I try this?

Answer 1

The above answer is a good suggestion. If you can't work because of your injury, consider applying for disability through social security. It's worth a phone call.

As far as the doctor's appointments, consider phoning your surgeon and let him know your circumstance. He may consider a reduced rate for you or spread the visits further apart. Because of your age, your bones may be more brittle and may take longer to heal, I'm sure this is a concern of your surgeon. A heart to heart conversation with your surgeon is important, my guess is that he will be willing to work with you, and it really is necessary to ensure a full recovery for you.

I broke my foot January 7th and had it surgically screwed back together, possibly your predicament, too. I had it x-rayed on Monday and it is still not completely healed (thank you, menopause) surgery was 11 weeks ago. Luckily, I have insurance, a husband, and my mother to look after me. To make a point, you may be looking for a longer ordeal than 8-12 weeks, not including rehabilitation. You will experience muscle atrophy because of immobilization in more than just your lower leg.

Your question is not a stupid one and I completely understand your situation. Bless your heart, I wish there was something I could do to help you. Feel free to e-mail me for moral support if nothing else.

So sorry you're having a difficult time.

Answer 2

i was hit by a car 4 months ago and have 8 tib/fib fractures. i have to go to see doc every 6 weeks to see how the bone heals. last week he told me i might need another surgery because one of the fractures is not healing that well.
i think you should go to see doc at least once in 2 months to make sure it heals and it heals wright.

Answer 3

You know, you can get help. You need to contact your county's department of social services. With no insurance and low income, you would surely qualify. They will make sure you CAN see a doctor when you need to and you'll pay based on your income minus your bills, so it will never be more than you can afford. Please look up your county's website and call them. They'll tell you what you need to bring in.