Avoiding Order Form Pitfalls

As our partner in the bracing process, you can join us in serving your patient faster. We do ask you for a lot of information, and it’s all necessary to produce the brace you intend. The order form tells us how to make the brace you want, where and when to send the brace, and whom we are going to bill for the brace.

In most cases, if we cannot read what is written or if there is conflicting information, we will call you for clarification. We won’t be able to continue with fabrication until we speak to you. If we can’t reach you right away, this can delay the fabrication of your brace, possibly by days or weeks. Here are some typical scenarios that you can avoid.

Problem—Missing Purchase Order
Your account with us is set up to require a purchase order number and none is provided on the order form.

Fix—Get to know how your DAFO account is set up. Information on your account can affect how quickly you receive finished braces, such as the default return shipping method for your branch or the need for a PO number. (For more on shipping, see “Need it Now,” below.) You can find out about (and change) your account settings by calling DAFO Accounting at 800/848-7332.

Problem—Discontinued
The ribbon trim specified on your order has been discontinued.

Fix—Our ribbon trim offerings change periodically. Check the most current selection on our website, www.cascadedafo.com, in Our Products → Colors & Trim Patterns. You can also request a flipper (a swatch set of trim patterns and padding colors) from Cascade Customer Service (800/848-7332). When we have new or updated trim choices, you’ll see an announcement in Dafo Dynamics as well.

Problem—Handwriting
The writing on the order form is illegible.

Fix—Please take the time to write clearly. Or you can fill out the form electronically using the convenient printable, faxable eForms available on our website. Scroll down to find the eForms.

Problem—Contradictions
What we receive doesn’t match the order form. For example, the order form is marked “bilateral” but we only receive a right cast. Or the order form indicates that items have been included (heat transfer paper, photos, etc.), but they are not in the box with the casts.

Fix—Check that the order form corresponds to the items being sent. If you change your bracing plan after casting, make sure the order form reflects that change.

Problem—Names clash
The name on the cast doesn’t match the name on the order form.

Fix—If the patient sometimes goes by a nickname or has multiple first or last names, make sure you use the same names on the order form as on the cast.

Problem—Need it now
You need the brace as soon as possible, really.

Fix— Current brace fabrication turnaround time averages 24 hours for Fast Fit and three to four days for Custom DAFOs. For an extremely urgent order, to cut the fabrication time in half, check the Rush Order box on order form (bottom right). A $25 charge applies.

When you schedule the brace fitting, be sure to consider shipping time (both inbound to Cascade and outbound). Ground shipping can take as long as five business days between our West Coast location and the East Coast. If you need expedited shipment, consider using two-day shipping instead.

If you have any questions about ordering, please ask us. Our focus, like yours, is on serving patients by providing them with the best brace to fit their needs in the shortest time. Clear communication will help us team up for the best end result. We look forward to working with you!

— Eowyn Savela, Order Entry