Patient information
Prepare for your orthopedic visit
Your visit starts with understanding your concerns and how they affect daily life. This guide helps you prepare your questions, gather the information you already have and plan your visit.
Before, during and after.
- 01
Before your visit
Request your appointment with Sofía and confirm the location before coming. Note when the problem began, which activities are difficult and which treatments you have tried. Gather the reports and documents you already have; you can request an appointment even if you have no previous imaging or tests.
- 02
During your assessment
Explain your symptoms and what you need to return to in daily life, work or sport. The assessment considers your history, clinical examination and the available information. You can ask about your options, why a treatment is being proposed and which questions to clarify before deciding.
- 03
After your visit
Make sure you understand the agreed plan and next steps, including any tests or follow-up that are recommended. Ask for an explanation of any instruction that is unclear. Use the practice's contact channels if you need to arrange another appointment or clarify an administrative question.
Make the most of your visit
What to bring.
Gather the information you already have and the questions you want to discuss.
Book an appointment- Your identification document and the information needed to register for your visit.
- Imaging and reports you already have: X-rays, MRI or CT scans, or other relevant documents. Bring the images as well if they are available.
- A list of the medicines you use and their doses, along with any known allergies.
- Information about previous treatments, physical therapy, casts or splints, or surgery related to the problem.
- Your questions and a short note about your symptoms, when they began and how they limit your activities.
- If the visit is for a child, come with a responsible adult who can help explain their history and symptoms.
Answers to help plan your visit.
You can also check the phone numbers and locations for both offices.
View locationsHow do I request an appointment?
Use the appointment link to contact Sofía. Let her know that you would like to see Dr. Ricardo Vega Croker, the general reason for your visit and your preferred location.
Where does the doctor see patients?
Dr. Vega sees patients at COMEDSA in Town Center and at Hospital Punta Pacífica in Panama City. Check the details for each location on the Contact page and confirm where your appointment will take place before coming.
Does he see adults and children?
Yes. He provides orthopedic and trauma care for adults and children, assessing pain, injuries and mobility problems in different parts of the musculoskeletal system. When requesting an appointment, mention the patient's age and reason for the visit.
Do I need imaging or tests before my appointment?
You can request an appointment even if you have no previous tests. If you have already had relevant X-rays, MRI scans or other tests, bring the reports and available images. The assessment helps determine whether any additional tests are needed.
Does seeing a surgeon mean I need an operation?
No. The visit allows the problem to be assessed and the alternatives considered. The plan may include nonoperative treatment or surgery when indicated, depending on the assessment, your symptoms and your goals. You can ask about the benefits, limitations and risks of each option.
What should I do if I live outside Panama?
Contact the practice before arranging your trip. Explain the reason for your visit and ask what information is needed to coordinate it. Bring any imaging and reports you already have available.
YOUR NEXT STEP
Let’s discuss your care.
Choose a location or check appointment availability.