At Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute, we understand that patients can sometimes feel overwhelmed when seeking medical care.
Please use the resources here to navigate your journey.
Our coordinated, multi-disciplinary approach ensures you receive the care you need, from diagnosis through rehabilitation, so you can focus on healing and returning to work.
Please fill out new patient forms:
Please bring the following with you to your scheduled appointment:
Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute
Dr. Levenda Talks About Orthopedic Practice
Dr. Rao Talks About Pain Medicine Practice
Please do not consume food or liquids after midnight on the evening prior to your surgery date due to complications associated with anesthesia. This includes mints and chewing gum. Additionally, we recommend that you do not smoke, chew tobacco, or consume alcohol for at least 24 hours prior to your surgery.
As a reminder, you, the patient, will not be permitted to drive a car or leave the surgery center or hospital unattended after surgery. It is necessary to make arrangements for a responsible adult or caregiver to drive you home and stay with you for 24 hours following surgery.
Please do not consume food or liquids after midnight on the evening prior to your surgery date due to complications associated with anesthesia. This includes mints and chewing gum. Additionally, we recommend that you do not smoke, chew tobacco, or consume alcohol for at least 24 hours prior to your surgery.
As a reminder, you, the patient, will not be permitted to drive a car or leave the surgery center or hospital unattended after surgery. It is necessary to make arrangements for a responsible adult or caregiver to drive you home and stay with you for 24 hours following surgery.
Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute
Dr. Levenda Talks About Orthopedic Practice
Dr. Rao Talks About Pain Medicine Practice
Insurance coverage can vary by plan, provider, and type of service. Before your appointment, we recommend contacting your insurance company to confirm your benefits, referral requirements, and any out-of-pocket expenses. If you have questions about insurance coverage, payment, or billing, you can also contact Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute at 219-921-1444.
Please bring your current insurance card, photo ID, co-payment or deductible information if applicable, and any required insurance referral. If you have records related to your injury or condition, bring medical records, imaging such as X-rays or MRI scans, lab results, a current medication list, and your medical history. It may also be helpful to bring a written list of questions or concerns to discuss during your appointment.
Surgery is not always the first step. Your provider will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, imaging, and treatment goals before recommending a care plan. Many orthopedic conditions can be treated with nonsurgical options such as physical therapy, medication, injections, bracing, or activity modification, while surgery may be recommended when conservative treatments are no longer effective.
Outpatient surgery is a procedure that allows you to return home the same day, rather than staying overnight in a hospital. Many orthopedic procedures can be performed in an outpatient setting depending on your condition, overall health, and the type of surgery needed. Your care team will review what to expect before, during, and after your procedure.
A physician assistant, or PA, is a licensed medical provider who works closely with physicians to evaluate patients, order tests, assist with treatment plans, and provide follow-up care. At LBJI, physician assistants are part of the orthopedic care team and help ensure patients receive timely, coordinated care. If your condition requires additional evaluation by a physician, your care team will coordinate the appropriate next steps.
Imaging helps your provider better understand your injury or condition and may include X-rays, MRI scans, or other diagnostic tests. LBJI offers digital X-ray and MRI services to help diagnose orthopedic injuries and guide treatment planning. If you have previous imaging, such as X-rays or MRI results, please bring them to your appointment or confirm they have been sent to LBJI in advance.
Yes. LBJI offers digital X-ray and MRI services to support accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. Digital X-rays can often be completed as part of an orthopedic evaluation, while MRI appointments may be scheduled when more detailed imaging is needed. Your provider will determine which imaging is appropriate based on your symptoms and condition.
Appointment availability depends on the provider, specialty, location, and urgency of your condition. For injuries that need prompt attention, LBJI Orthopedic Urgent Care offers same-day treatment for concerns such as fractures, sprains, and joint pain with no appointment necessary. For scheduled appointments, please contact LBJI at 219-921-1444 or request an appointment online.
