Sprained your ankle? Broke your wrist? It’s time for O.U.C.H.!

It’s better than it sounds. O.U.C.H. stands for Orthopedic Urgent Care at Hilborn.

The service was born in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic as a way to lighten the load at NorthBay Urgent Care clinics in Vacaville and Fairfield and get patients who need orthopedic expertise into a same-day pipeline.

“Patients who experience pain or injuries can book themselves an appointment at O.U.C.H. through a link on the NorthBay Orthopedics website, NorthBay Urgent Care website, or via the Carbon Health app,” explained Keiko Sargent, director of Musculoskeletal Health Services.

“Our overall goal for O.U.C.H. is to provide high-quality, easy-to-access, definitive orthopedic care to patients in a safe and friendly environment.”— Keiko Sargent Director of Musculoskeletal Health Services

O.U.C.H. is primarily staffed by Physician Assistant Joe Mashinchi in partnership with the orthopedic surgeons between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at NorthBay Center for Orthopedics & Rehabilitation, 2500 Hilborn Road in Fairfield.

As the service expands, weekend hours may be added. In the meantime, NorthBay Urgent Care continues to handle sprains and broken bones seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., as an alternative to the Emergency Department.

“Our overall goal for O.U.C.H. is to provide high-quality, easy-to-access, definitive orthopedic care to patients in a safe and friendly environment,” said Keiko. “Services include X-rays, casting/splinting, orthopedic exams, and follow-up care guidance.”