FAQS
WHAT IS AN ORTHOTIST?
From the OPC website: Orthotists design, fabricate, and fit braces and splints, known as orthoses, from head to toe for people who need added support for body parts that have been weakened by injury, disease, or disorders of the nerves, muscles, or bones.
​
This includes foot orthotics, knee braces, helmets, elbow braces, back braces, and condition-specific aids such as scoliosis braces and reciprocating-gait-orthosis for spina bifida.
WHO PAYS FOR THE SERVICE?
Orthotics and Prosthetics are not MCP-covered services, it is therefore essentially a private pay service in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Third-party payers however do exist and they are: NIHB, Veterans Affairs / CAF, Workers NL, Special Assistance Program, Private Health Insurance
​
If you are not eligible for any of the above and do not have private insurance, private pay and or the use of our affiliated medical financing company would be your only option. Please contact our office to discuss payment options or clarify any of the above.
CAN I PICK MY BRACE COLOUR?
We are happy to say - usually yes you can!
Don't hesitate to to ask your clinician if you have a certain colour or pattern you are looking for, there may be limitations depending on the manufacturing style, but for the most part we can we customize the design, even the colour of the straps and pads.
ARE ADJUSTMENTS AND FOLLOW UP NECESSARY?
Yes.
Follow-ups and adjustments, even for custom fabricated items, are normal. Typically for most items, a return appointment will be scheduled for a checkup. However, if you are experiencing skin irritation or breakdown, new or never-before pain symptoms, be sure to contact the clinic as soon as possible and discontinue wearing the device. With a fully functioning workshop on-site we can do most adjustments and repairs while you wait.
DO YOU ACCEPT RETURNS?
Generally no.
Returns will be determined on a case-by-case basis. Items mailed back or delivered to our premises without prior approval for return or exchange will be shipped back at the clients' expense.Â
Most items are one-patient use items, and once worn cannot be put back on the shelf for resale. This is especially true for anything custom fabricated. As this is a clinical service, not simply a store, items are dispensed after patient consent and education. That said human error does occur, and as it is our primary goal to provide the best possible care, as such every possible consideration will be afforded within reason.