Prosthetic Clinic FAQ's

 

How much will my prosthesis cost?

Prices start from £3,500 for a low-activity limb up to a maximum of £30,000 for a high end specification above-knee limb with a silicone cover. We make all our limbs to your individual requirements and will discuss these with you during your consultation.

 

Can you still give me a cost if I don't attend a consultation?

Previous experience has proved that this is not possible. While we can provide general costs on specific componentry, your personal consultation allows us to assess your needs and recommend items that will be right for you. We'll also need to know your amputation history and personal goals to recommend treatment and provide costs.

 

Do you see patients for pre-amputation appointments?

Yes, we see many patients for a pre-amputation consultation to help put their minds at ease.

 

How many appointments will I need and how long will each last?

People usually need between six to eight appointments. The appointments will last around two hours, depending on your needs. If you wish to have a silicone cover, your appointments can last up to three hours. However, we normally add these on to your manufacturing appointments. This may seem like a lot at first glance, however, previous experience has taught us that in order to provide you with the best possible prosthetic care, this number of appointments is needed. We will however, try and keep appointments to a minimum where we can.

 

Where are your clinics?

We run a prosthetic clinic in Ringwood, Hampshire. We also have satellite clinics in Birmingham and Leeds where our clinician can see you if you prefer. You may be able to visit our satellite clinics for fitting appointments. However, if you require a silicone cover, you'll need to attend our Ringwood clinic.

 

How long will I have to wait until I can be seen?

You will normally have a consultation within two weeks of contacting us. Your clinician will then prepare a quotation. If you're happy to proceed, we'll need a signed copy of the quote and a deposit. We can then arrange a schedule of appointments starting within three to four weeks, depending on availability.

 

How long will it take to get my prosthesis?

This depends on your availability for appointments and whether you decide to have a silicone cover. We can manufacture a limb without a cover in around 6 weeks, while a limb with a cover may take 8 to 10 weeks.

 

What types of covers are available and are some heavier than others?

There are various types of cover, which we'll discuss in your consultation. The silicone cover, which makes your limb look realistic, is slightly heavier than other covers. Typically, this is not an issue for the vast majority of our clients. If you are an above-knee amputee, you could have a below-knee silicone cover to make it lighter.

 

How can I pay for my prosthesis?

You can pay by credit card, cheque or cash if you pay in person.

 

Is there any help with funding available?

Yes, we might be able to offer you a financial package. You can also explore funding from NHS Hospital Trusts and Primary Care Trusts. For help and guidance, please email enquiry@dorset-ortho.com or call +44 (0) 1425 481740.

 

How long will you guarantee my prosthesis and does this include the silicone cover?

Each part of the prosthesis is covered for three months or six months under warranty. We can discuss this during your consultation.

 

Where is the nearest airport to your clinic in Ringwood, Dorset?

The nearest airport is Bournemouth, which is about twenty minutes' away by car. Southampton airport is around forty minutes' away by car and more routes are being added to both airports.

 

Can you recommend any accommodation where I can stay?

We have a list of places you can stay in the Ringwood area. We can post or email a list to you.

 

Do you have a Physiotherapist I can see?

Yes, we have an excellent Physiotherapist who specialises in helping amputees. Through our excellent limbs and his support, our patients go on to lead normal lives.

 

Do you have an Occupational Therapist?

Yes, we have an excellent Occupational Therapist who can come to see you during one of your appointments.

 

As I had an accident, can you help me claim through a solicitor?

Yes, we have a legal department who can guide you and your solicitor, if you have one. See our section on Legal Claims.

 

I live abroad. Do I need to come for a consultation?

It's always better to come for a consultation, as our clinicians would like to discuss your requirements in person. We'll always do our best to accommodate you.

 

Will you charge me for cancelling an appointment?

We won't usually charge you. However, we would like as much notice as possible in order to accommodate other clients.

 

Can you issue me with a letter that helps me get a Visa to come to your clinic?

Yes, we can send a letter to support your Visa application. There is a cost for this service. We will also ask if you need us to add any specific information to your letter.

 

If I pay for a limb from Dorset Orthopaedic, can I still approach the NHS for another limb?

Yes. The agreement is strictly between you and Dorset Orthopaedic. Should you decide to have a second limb through the NHS, that's no problem at all.