1213 Joliet St # C, West Chicago, IL 60185  |  (630) 293-3668
Mon & Wed: 9am–5pm

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

Real answers to what West Chicago patients ask us most — about our hours, insurance, costs, and what to expect at Horizon Foot and Ankle Specialists.

Request an AppointmentCall (630) 293-3668

Before you visit

The questions we hear the most

Your office is open only Mondays and Wednesdays — what if those days don't work, or I need to be seen urgently?

We currently see patients on Mondays and Wednesdays, 9am to 5pm. If those days don't work, call or text us at (630) 293-3668 — we'll find the soonest opening that fits your schedule and do our best to work in urgent foot and ankle problems quickly.

¿Hablan español? Do you see patients in Spanish?

Yes. Dr. Ali and our team care for patients in both English and Spanish, and our new-patient forms are available in Spanish (formularios en español).

Can I text to book an appointment, or do I have to call?

Either works. You can call or text us at (630) 293-3668, or request a visit through our online appointment form and we'll confirm your time.

I don't have insurance — can I still be seen, and will I know the cost up front?

Absolutely. We welcome self-pay patients and offer transparent self-pay pricing. Just let us know when you book and we'll explain the cost before your visit — no surprises.

What insurance do you accept?

We accept most major insurance plans. Because coverage varies, call or text us with your plan details and we'll verify your benefits before your appointment. You can also see our Insurance page for more.

Do I need a referral from my regular doctor to see a podiatrist?

Most patients do not need a referral to see us. Some insurance plans do require one — if yours does, we'll help you sort it out when you call.

Does Dr. Ali perform surgery, or only in-office treatment?

Both. Dr. Ali is a reconstructive rearfoot and ankle–trained surgeon, so he handles everything from routine nail and skin care to bunion, hammertoe, and reconstructive foot and ankle surgery — always starting with the least invasive option that will work for you.

I have diabetes. How often should I have my feet checked?

Most people with diabetes should have a comprehensive foot exam at least once a year — and more often if you've had ulcers, numbness, or circulation problems. We provide diabetic foot exams, ulcer prevention, and wound care, so please don't wait for pain to get checked.

Where exactly are you located, and is parking available?

We're at 1213 Joliet St # C in downtown West Chicago, near the West Chicago Metra station, with parking nearby. We also welcome patients from Winfield, Wheaton, Carol Stream, Glen Ellyn, and surrounding towns.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Please bring a photo ID, your insurance card (if you have one), a list of any medications you take, and any X-rays or records related to your foot or ankle problem. If a particular pair of shoes bothers your feet, bring those too — they often tell us a lot.

Still have a question?

Call or text our West Chicago office and a real person will help — in English or Spanish. New patients are always welcome.