Q:  What insurance do you accept?
A:  A partial list of participating insurance companies follows, but please call the EOSM clinic to inquire about your insurance provider:

• Blue Cross Blue Shield
  
• Aetna
  
• Unicare
  
• United Healthcare
  
• Medicare
  
• Memorial Herman Health Network

Q:  What are your hours? 
A:  The office is open Monday – Friday from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. There are limited hours for clinic and physical therapy appointments.  Please call 281.997.3717 for assistance.

Q:  How far out is the schedule booked to see Dr. Torres-Barré?
A:  For most medical issues, EOSM can schedule an appointment to see Dr. Torres-Barré within 1-2 weeks; however, we work hard to accommodate most emergent cases either the same day or during the next clinic day.

Q:  How long has Dr. Torres-Barré been in practice?
A:  Dr. Torres-Barré completed her medical training in 2002.  She worked for the University of Texas-Med Center until September 2006 when she opened Elite Orthopedics/Sports Medicine and began private practice.

Surgery:

Q: What time should I arrive at the hospital?
A: Mary Rodriguez, EOSM Medical Assistant, mails you an information packet prior to your surgery.  The letter outlines the exact arrival time and other procedures relating to your surgery.  The normal arrival time is two hours before surgery.

Q: Do I need antibiotics before or after surgery?
A: Antibiotics are usually prescribed prior to surgery so that the patient can pre-fill the prescription and start taking the medication after surgery.  Typically, antibiotics are taken for the 3 days following your surgery.  Of course, each case is different and may require alternate treaments.

Q: When do I take my medication following surgery?
A: When you arrive home, take two of the prescribed tablets four hours after the last medication given at the hospital (confirm dosage on bottle). During the first twenty-four hours take your medication every four to six hours, or as prescribed by Dr. Torres-Barré. Ideally we recommend picking up your prescription (if prescribed medication) prior to your surgery to simplify your surgery day and ensure your comfort after the procedure.

Q: I had surgery recently. Can I take off my brace?
A: No, do NOT remove your brace at all. Do NOT take it off at night in bed unless otherwise instructed by Dr. Torres-Barré.

Q: Can I or should I try to walk without my crutches?
A: Crutches must be used at all times for your safety if prescribed by Dr. Torres-Barré.

Q: When will I change my surgical dressing, and can I shower?
A: Per instructions of Dr. Torres-Barré, dressing may be changed the 2nd day after surgery.  Prior to the 2nd day, do not remove dressings or alter them in any manner. Do not get dressings wet. You may shower as long as you keep the dressings dry. If you do get your dressing wet, please call the office.  Again, please be sure to keep all dressings dry.

Q: When do I come in for my first post-op visit?
A: Post-operative appointments are typically scheduled for 7-10 days after your surgery date.

Q: I am experiencing a moderate level of pain. Is this normal?
A: You will have some pain. Pain medication is not given to eliminate pain but to make the pain more tolerable.

Q: Will I have some bleeding following surgery?
A: Yes, but please call the office with any questions regarding excessively bloody dressings.

Q: May I drive following surgery?
A: Unless otherwise advised by Dr. Torres-Barré, you may NOT drive while taking pain medication, or use your operative foot or leg while driving,

Q: When can I go back to work?
A: Each surgical case is different with respect to returning to work and should be discussed at your pre-op visit with Dr. Torres-Barré.