Orthopedic Surgeons in Madison, WI
Compare 163 orthopedic surgeons in Madison, WI. Check ratings, insurance, and availability.
163
Orthopedic Surgeons
100%
Accepting patients
82%
Most common: MD
Top-Rated Orthopedic Surgeons in Madison, WI
Ranked by Clarity Score, based on profile detail, verification, and patient activity.
Specialty: orthopedistState: WICity: Madison
About orthopedic surgeons in Madison, WI
Madison is a college town with academic medical center resources that punch well above its size. UW Health dominates the local market, and the population is younger, more educated, and more health-engaged than most comparably sized cities. The result is a healthcare environment where preventive care and wellness are the norm, not the exception.
Madison has 163 orthopedic surgeons. The most common credential is MD (82%). 100% are currently accepting new patients. Practitioners see patients in neighborhoods including Downtown (Capitol Square), Williamson Street (Willy Street), Monroe Street, and Hilldale.
UW Health University Hospital sits on the west side of the isthmus near the UW-Madison campus. SSM Health St. Mary's is on the south side, and Meriter Hospital (UnityPoint) is centrally located near the Capitol. Most medical offices cluster along University Avenue, the Beltline Highway corridor, and the west side near the hospital. Parking at UW Hospital can be tight, so use the shuttle from the garage on Highland Avenue.
Nearby hospitals include UW Health University Hospital, SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital, and Meriter Hospital (UnityPoint Health). Local training programs run through University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health and University of Wisconsin-Madison. Madison is consistently ranked among the healthiest cities in the US due to high physical activity rates and healthcare access.
Quartz (formerly Physicians Plus), affiliated with UW Health, and Dean Health Plan are the dominant local carriers. Group Health Cooperative also serves the Madison market. National carriers like UnitedHealthcare and Anthem have less market share here than in Milwaukee. BadgerCare Plus enrollment is lower in Dane County than in most Wisconsin counties, reflecting the area's higher employment and income levels. 61% accept Medicare.
What to expect at your first orthopedic surgeon visit in Madison, WI
The first visit includes a physical exam of the affected area, range-of-motion testing, and imaging review (bring any existing X-rays or MRI results). The orthopedist may order additional imaging. They will explain the diagnosis and discuss treatment options, starting with conservative approaches (therapy, bracing, injections) before considering surgery.
Tips for Madison, WI patients
UW Health uses the MyChart patient portal. If you are new to the area and coming from a different health system, request your records be sent electronically or bring printed copies. Many UW Health clinics offer same-day or next-day appointments for established patients.
When to see a orthopedic surgeon
See an orthopedist for persistent joint pain, sports injuries (torn ACL, meniscus tears, rotator cuff), fractures, back or neck pain that is not improving, carpal tunnel symptoms, arthritis limiting your daily activities, or a musculoskeletal injury that has not responded to initial treatment from your primary care doctor.
Typical costs
Office visit copay: $30-75 · MRI: $500-3,000 · Cortisone injection: $100-300 · Knee replacement: $20,000-50,000
Frequently asked questions about orthopedic surgeons in Madison, WI
Madison, WI has 163 licensed orthopedic surgeons. 100% are currently accepting new patients, so finding an available provider should be straightforward.
Yes. 100% of orthopedic surgeons in Madison, WI are currently accepting new patients. You can filter your search on FindClarity to show only providers who are taking new patients.
Wisconsin residents enroll through HealthCare.gov for ACA marketplace plans. In Dane County, options include Quartz (affiliated with UW Health), Dean Health Plan, and Group Health Cooperative. BadgerCare Plus covers Medicaid-eligible residents. Many Madison employers offer Quartz or Dean plans that include the UW Health network.
Office visit copays range from $30 to $75. An MRI costs $500 to $3,000. Cortisone injections run $100 to $300. Knee replacement surgery costs $20,000 to $50,000 before insurance. Actual costs in Madison, WI depend on the provider and your insurance plan. MRIs and advanced imaging often require prior authorization. Physical therapy sessions are usually covered but may be capped at a certain number per year. Verify in-network status for both surgeon and facility before any procedure.
UW Health is the dominant system in Madison, operating the university hospital, dozens of clinics, and the American Family Children's Hospital. SSM Health and UnityPoint (Meriter) offer alternatives. For most specialty care, UW Health will be the primary option. If your insurance does not include UW Health, SSM and Meriter cover a wide range of primary and acute care needs.
61% of orthopedic surgeons in Madison, WI accept Medicare. Medicare covers orthopedic visits, imaging, and procedures when medically necessary. Joint replacements are covered under Part A (inpatient) or Part B (outpatient). Physical therapy is also covered with limits. You can filter for Medicare-accepting providers on FindClarity.
Some orthopedic surgeons in Madison, WI accept BadgerCare Plus, the state's Medicaid program. Medicaid covers orthopedic services including office visits, imaging, and medically necessary surgeries. Coverage for elective procedures and physical therapy sessions may be limited. Contact the provider's office directly to confirm BadgerCare Plus participation before scheduling.
UW Health is the largest and most comprehensive system, but SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital and UnityPoint Health-Meriter both operate in Madison. For complex specialty care, oncology, and transplants, UW Health is typically the referral destination. Primary care and many surgical procedures are available at all three systems.
Madison has a relatively strong supply of therapists compared to most cities its size. UW Health Behavioral Health, Journey Mental Health Center, and many private practices accept new patients. Check whether your plan includes Quartz or Dean network providers, as that will determine your in-network options.
Nearby Cities
Other specialties in Madison
Insurance & Orthopedic Surgeon coverage
Top accepted carriers in Madison, WI include unitedhealthcare, medicare, qhp-44228, qhp-37833, and qhp-20173.
Orthopedic visits are covered as specialist visits under your medical insurance. MRIs and other imaging may require prior authorization. Physical therapy sessions are usually covered with a copay, though plans may limit the number per year. Joint replacement surgery is a major medical expense. Verify in-network status for both the surgeon and the facility.