Leg orthotics in Istanbul – TOP 10+ Clinics and Costs 2026

820К+ patients have got assistance since 2014

50 countries

1,500 clinics

6K+ reviews

3K+ qualified doctors

How Much Does Leg orthotics Cost in Istanbul?

Leg orthotics in Istanbul typically costs from $900 to $900 based on device complexity and materials. Prices vary depending on whether the orthosis is a standard mechanical support or a custom-made solution with high-grade components. Patients save around 73% compared to the US, where the average cost is $7,000. Most clinics include the initial consultation, device fitting, and basic adjustments in the primary price.

Custom-fitted devices: Typically cost more than standard models due to personalized casting and molding.
Advanced materials: Carbon fiber or lightweight alloys increase the price while improving mobility and comfort.
Clinical expertise: Facilities with JCI accreditation often have higher specialized laboratory and technician fees.
Follow-up care: Complex orthotics may require secondary sessions for pressure point adjustment and gait training.

Bookimed Expert Insight: Istanbul is Turkey's hub for advanced rehabilitation equipment and specialized prosthetic laboratories. The city offers unique access to German-trained technicians, such as those at Luxmed Protez Clinic who utilize Ottobock standards. Leading centers like Memorial Bahçelievler Hospital combine JCI-accredited safety with high volumes of international cases. Choosing Istanbul lets patients access academic-level specialists like Professor Cengiz Sen for complex congenital limb deformity correction.

	Turkey	Austria	Spain
Leg orthotics	from $1,200	from $4,500	from $3,500

Data verified by Bookimed as of June 2026, based on patient requests and official quotes from 16 clinics worldwide. Median costs are based on real invoices (2025–2026) and updated monthly. Actual prices may vary.

Your Benefits and Guarantees with Bookimed

Transparent Prices & Flexible Installments

No hidden fees – just official clinic prices. Pay at the clinic for Leg orthotics upon arrival and use a flexible installment plan if needed.

Verified Clinics & Doctors Only

Bookimed is committed to your safety. We only work with medical institutions that maintain high international standards in Leg orthotics and have the necessary licenses to serve international patients worldwide.

Free 24/7 Assistance

Bookimed offers free expert assistance. A personal medical coordinator supports you before, during, and after your treatment, solving any issues. You're never alone on your Leg orthotics journey.

Why we?

Your personal Bookimed medical coordinator

Supports you at every stage
Helps choose the right clinic and doctor
Ensures quick and convenient access to information

Best Leg orthotics Clinics in Istanbul: 7 Verified Options and Prices

The Bookimed clinic ranking is based on data science algorithms, providing a trusted, transparent, and objective comparison. It takes into account patient demand, review scores (both positive and negative), the frequency of updates to treatment options and prices, response speed, and clinic certifications.

Memorial Şişli Hospital

Turkey, Istanbul

Clinic is certified :

Memorial Şişli Hospital offers large bone pseudoarthrosis surgery with iliac bone graft removal and osteotomy fixation, typically costing around $17,900. The package includes 3 nights hospitalization, pre-operative tests, anesthesia consultation, follow-up care, and airport transfers. As Turkey's first JCI-accredited hospital, it maintains international safety standards. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hakan Sofu specializes in orthopedics and traumatology. The clinic provides multilingual support with English and Russian interpreters.

diagnostics
MRI of the joint	$700
Consultation with an orthopedist (traumatologist)	$220

Memorial Bahçelievler Hospital

Turkey, Istanbul

Mustafa Kurklu

23 years of experience

Clinic is certified :

Professor Dr Mustafa Kurklu has performed 1,100+ leg orthotics procedures over 23 years of experience, specializing in orthopedic surgery and fractures. The procedure may cost around $42,340 – typically covering surgery, 3 days hospital stay, transfers, and interpreter services. The ISO-certified Memorial Bahçelievler Hospital offers eco-friendly care with LEED Platinum standards. Prof. Kurklu leads the hand transplantation department and has authored 72 scientific publications.

diagnostics
CT (computer tomography)	$550 - $1,000
Consultation with a maxillofacial surgeon	$160

Medipol Acibadem District Hospital

Turkey, Istanbul

Mustafa Ozdemir

33 years of experience

Clinic is certified :

Prof. Dr. Mustafa Özdemir leads the Spine Surgery Department at Medipol Acibadem District Hospital with 31 years of orthopedic experience. The clinic offers leg orthotics with Da Vinci robot-assisted precision and VIP services for international patients. Consultation runs about $200, while X-rays may cost around $250 per area. Follow-up within 9 days is included in treatment plans. The hospital is part of Medipol Education and Health Group.

diagnostics
Lab tests	$109 - $219

OrtoCare Orthopedic Clinic

Turkey, Istanbul

OrtoCare Orthopedic Clinic is a private multi-specialty medical center located in Istanbul, Turkey. The clinic specializes in orthopedics, rehabilitation, and hand surgery. OrtoCare Clinic treats both adults and children. Each year, around 1,000 patients choose OrtoCare Clinic for medical care. Patients most often travel to the clinic from CIS countries, Europe & the Commonwealth, the USA, Canada, and Australia.

Price on request

Luxmed Protez Clinic

Turkey, Istanbul

Luxmed Protez Clinic specializes in orthopedics and prosthetics, offering leg orthotics made from lightweight carbon fiber. The program may cost around 9,410 USD, typically covering a 10-15 day stay with 3-star hotel accommodation and a personalized orthotics plan. Staff trained at Ottobock in Germany ensure advanced prosthetic expertise, while a multilingual team facilitates seamless communication. The clinic maintains a 91% recommendation rate from patients.

Price on request

Leg orthotics Overview in Turkey

Takeaways

Related procedures & Costs

How it works

What to expect

Benefits

Payment

patients recommend -

85%

Surgery Time - 1 hour

Stay in the country - 12 days

Rehabilitation - 30 days

Anesthesia - Local anesthesia

Requests processed - 23249

Verified patient reviews - 20

Bookimed fees - $0

Types of Leg orthotics

Limb prosthetics - from $8,550
The procedure involves replacing lost limbs with prosthetics, improving mobility.
Above knee prosthesis - from $9,000
Replacement of a leg part lost above the knee to improve mobility and quality of life.
Below knee prosthesis - from $8,500
Lower leg replacement with a prosthesis to improve mobility and enhance the quality of life post-amputation.
Prosthetic foot - from $4,500
The procedure involves attaching an artificial foot to enable mobility and improve quality of life.
Bionic leg - from $28,000
The operation installs a high-tech prosthesis, improving mobility and balance for individuals with leg loss.
Electronic leg prosthesis - from $20,000
Installation of advanced, programmable artificial legs, enhancing movement, accuracy, and comfort.
Prosthetic arm - from $8,000
Replacement a missing arm with an artificial limb to improve mobility and functionality.
Cosmetic prosthetic arm - from $10,000
The procedure offers aesthetic replacement of a missing arm ensuring natural appearance and boosted self-confidence.
Prosthetic finger - from $2,200
The procedure helps replace missing fingers, improving hand function and appearance with customizable, moveable prosthetics.
Bionic arm - from $30,000
An artificial limb that uses muscle signals to control movement.
Electronic arm prosthesis - from $20,000
The operation provides a high-tech limb replacement, enhancing movement with advanced features, like tactile feedback.
Prosthetic leg for children - from $8,500
This procedure provides a custom-built artificial limb for kids, promoting mobility, growth, and balanced development.
Sports prosthetic leg - from $15,000
This procedure outfits athletes with artificial limbs, tailor-made for high performance and movement, enhancing sport activity participation.
Sports above knee prosthetics - from $20,000
This procedure fits active amputees with an artificial limb above the knee for enhanced athletic performance.
Sports below knee prosthetics - from $7,800
This procedure provides athletic individuals missing a lower limb with customized, activity-optimized artificial legs.
Leg orthotics - from $1,200
The procedure involves custom devices for supporting and improving lower limb function and mobility. It"s non-invasive and beneficial for various conditions.

Our Trusted Doctors

View all Doctors

Mustafa Ozdemir

33 years of experience

Associate Professor in Radiology with extensive experience in diagnostic imaging – Dr. Ozdemir practices at Medipol Acibadem District Hospital.

Specialized in radiology since 2005
Works with advanced imaging technologies
Skilled in orthotic assessment preparation

Azmi Hamzaoglu

43 years of experience

Founder of Turkey's first spine surgery center – Dr. Hamzaoglu leads the Istanbul Scoliosis and Spine Center at Istanbul Florence Nightingale Hospital.

Specialized in orthopedics and traumatology for over 43 years of experience
Trained at the Minnesota Spine Center and University of Hokkaido
Professor at Istanbul University – one of Turkey's top medical schools
Pioneer in innovative spine surgery techniques

Prof Ibrahim Azboy

25 years of experience

Prof Ibrahim Azboy is a professor of orthopedics specializing in leg orthotics at Medipol Acibadem District Hospital.

25 years of experience of experience in orthopedics
Trained at Hacettepe School of Medicine and Istanbul Training and Research Hospital
Holds professor title at Istanbul Medipol University

Gurkan Gumussuyu

36 years of experience

Dr. Gumussuyu specializes in sports and joint surgery at Liv Hospital Ulus, with a focus on innovative orthopedic solutions.

Expert in spine and joint surgery techniques
Published multiple research papers on orthopedic treatments
Works with advanced bioabsorbable materials for fractures
Member of leading orthopedic research teams

Reviews about Bookimed: Discover Patients' Insights

Rashed Alhosani • Consultation with an orthopaedist

United Arab Emirates

Feb 10, 2024

Verified review.

In 8 days I felt better and I don't need surgical operation

I like the treatment , staff , environment. Special thanks for Hussein , Melih , and all staff I can’t remember the names . I recommend this hospital for all . Daily they made for me more than 10-12 session . They used all technology and staff to let me feel better . I had some special services massage , daily Hotel transport, and hotel discount . I can’t express all but thanks a lot in 8 days I felt better and I don’t need surgical operation . Will visit again inshallah .

About Bookimed service

Perfect they follow all my needs

Fizyomer Terapia Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation & Aesthetic & Dental Medical Center

Mariia Chumakova • Hallux valgus surgery

Georgia

Oct 24, 2025

Verified review.

Lokman Hekim Hospital left a profound impression on me with its genuine care for every patient

Lokman Hekim Hospital left a profound impression on me with its genuine care for every patient. Everything here is organized the way it should be in an ideal clinic: the staff is attentive, considerate, always ready to help, and does not just go through formal procedures. Unlike many expensive clinics, where everything feels cold and impersonal, where patients are treated almost like on a conveyor belt, here you truly feel involvement and empathy. Every step, every detail is thoughtfully planned with the patient in mind, creating a sense of safety and comfort. Here, they don’t just treat and send you away — they guide and support you at every stage, creating an atmosphere of trust and warmth. This approach makes the stay in the clinic as comfortable and reassuring as possible.

In short, my experience was simply amazing. I highly recommend Lokman Hekim among other Turkish clinics, in Istanbul and other cities, because everything here is truly top-notch. I have already shared more detailed impressions in other reviews, but in short — everything was perfect.

Everything was perfect

About Bookimed service

My experience with Bookimed was absolutely amazing. My sister even went with me to have blepharoplasty, and she immediately wanted to have her surgery at the same clinic where I had mine, because the plastic surgeon there was incredibly professional and outstanding. I can confidently recommend Bookimed to all my relatives, and I would gladly go again to this clinic and only to these doctors, because every specialist in the clinic is exceptional and excellent. Bookimed is truly an amazing platform. I am grateful that it exists because it is very important for people who cannot find the best doctors in their own countries. The platform helps to find the best options for each patient individually, offering different choices so that everyone can select what is optimal for them.

Lokman Hekim University Ankara Hospital Mehmet Emin Simsek

Dar'ya • Arthroscopic surgery

Georgia

Feb 14, 2026

Verified review.

I am completely satisfied with the treatment and grateful to the entire team for their professionalism and care

I was very impressed with the clinic and the attentive care given to patients. Special thanks to Dr. Rukhat Tanli—an knowledgeable, professional, and highly compassionate specialist. Anesthesia was administered smoothly, and recovery was comfortable. The staff is friendly and caring, and the clinic is modern and clean. I would also like to specifically thank coordinator Olga for her assistance, support, and translation guidance—thanks to her, the entire process was calm and organized. I am completely satisfied with the treatment and grateful to the entire team for their professionalism and care.

I was highly impressed with the clinic and their approach to patients. Special thanks to Dr. Rukhat Tanli — a knowledgeable, attentive, and professional specialist. The anesthesia was smooth, and the recovery was comfortable. The staff is very friendly and caring, with a calm atmosphere. The clinic is modern and clean. I am completely satisfied with the treatment and grateful to the entire team for their help and support.

About Bookimed service

Everything is great, thank you.

Lokman Hekim Istanbul Hospital Ruhat Tanli

claudine heilig • Osteoarthritis

France

Mar 6, 2026

Verified review.

In my situation, this care truly gave me hope again

I came to Istanbul for intensive medical care with a complex case involving multiple conditions. Thanks to Bookimed and my French-speaking coordinator Fidan and her colleague, everything was organized flawlessly. They truly went above and beyond, adapting my care to my evolving needs with great responsiveness and compassion. From the moment I arrived at Florence Nightingale Hospital, everything was handled with remarkable efficiency: I consulted 7 specialist professors in one day, followed by comprehensive tests (full-body MRI, CT scan, EMG, blood tests) over the next few days. In less than a week, I had a complete diagnosis and all treatments in place. The medical team is exceptionally professional — both highly skilled and genuinely caring. Each professor took the time to explain the results and treatment options. I now receive monthly follow-ups with my specialists. The service goes far beyond medical care: the hospital provides daily transportation for appointments, physiotherapy, and rehabilitation sessions. In France, I would have waited months just to get a first specialist appointment. Here, everything was done within days. I highly recommend Bookimed and Florence Nightingale Hospital without hesitation. In my situation, this care truly gave me hope again.

I arrived with a very complex and serious medical case, and I was impressed by the speed and efficiency of my care. In less than a week, I consulted 7 specialist professors, all necessary tests were completed (full-body MRI, CT, EMG, comprehensive blood work), and my treatments are now in place with monthly follow-ups by the professors. On top of that, the hospital provides daily transport for all my treatments: physiotherapy, rehabilitation, etc. An incredible service. Florence Nightingale is an excellent facility in every respect, both medically and humanly.

Apart from my visceral fear of needles, honestly, nothing. I even have a dedicated French-speaking coordinator. And a terrace café to enjoy a cappuccino in the sun inside the hospital. I have never been taken care of this well in my life.

About Bookimed service

Bookimed gave me access to excellent medical care in Istanbul that I could never have obtained so quickly in France. The compassionate support from Fidan and her team made all the difference at a time when I was feeling particularly vulnerable. I would recommend them without hesitation.

Istanbul Florence Nightingale Hospital

David Coombes • Hip replacement

Australia

Feb 26, 2026

Verified review.

I found the surgical staff and nurses in operating theatre to be extremely understanding and helpful. I was happy with the surgical procedure but would have liked a little more post-op feedback from the surgeon. Overall, though I was more than satisfied. Unfortunately the same cannot be said about the treatment which I received from the nursing staff, especially at night, although I subsequently found out that they are very short staffed while not having at least one English speaking nurse on duty day or night.

Procedure was very good on the day of surgery. Friendly and helpful medical coordinator Friendly nurses during the day. However there was not even one English speaking nurse during every day and every night. The only means of communicating was by phone translator which became tiresome and frustrating.

There needs to be better understanding between the nursing staff and patients. Despite best efforts it all became overwhelming and frustrating. I don’t know why but it was difficult to inform the staff that I was vegetarian. Twice I needed to change the capither myself - seemingly because nurses see it below their station so need to find a nursing assistant to empty the capither bag. To summarise - the medical coordinator was extremely helpful; the care and help by surgical staff and theatre nursing staff was very good. However the treatment from many of the nurses left something to be desired.

About Bookimed service

Helpful and understanding with good communication and follow up service. I was extremely satisfied with the empathy and help from Yasmina, Bookimed’s medical coordinator.

Büyük Anadolu Hospitals (BAH International)

Нурлан Чормаков • Hip replacement

Kazakhstan

Apr 25, 2024

Verified review.

I am very satisfied with the choice of this clinic

At the Turan Turan Clinic, I had total hip replacement surgeries on both legs almost simultaneously, two days apart. The operation was categorised as complicated. From the very first days of my stay in the clinic until my discharge I was really surrounded by sincere care and attention of the doctor and medical staff and interpreter. I was placed in a very comfortable ward with everything I needed. The interpreter and assistant in the person of Eldar did not leave me a step and helped with translation, consulted, gave useful advice and literally led me by the hand to the doctors where I was examined, from the X-ray room to the anaesthesiologist before the operation. Preparation for the operation, collection of analyses, their study and consultation with doctor Kayhan Turan took little time. Everything went promptly. The surgery was performed by the head doctor Kayhan Turan himself, who has vast experience in orthopaedic surgeries. With his light hand and high level of professionalism, the two surgeries two days apart were very easy. Smith & Nephew prostheses were fitted. Both operations were performed under spinal anaesthesia, which in my case completely eliminated the unpleasant stage of coming out of anaesthesia. I was conscious during the operations. Subsequent rehabilitation took place in a hospital ward, where special medical simulators were used along with exercises to develop the joint and vessels. I am very satisfied with the choice of this clinic.

About Bookimed service

Thank you Bookimed for the quality and prompt selection of the right clinic in accordance with the quality-price criterion. I was immediately offered several real offers to choose from, constant communication gave me hope for a speedy recovery. Very attentive staff. Thank you !!!!

Turan Turan Health Group Kayhan Turan

Maryna Bajer • Hand surgery

Germany

Oct 14, 2023

Verified review.

Thanks a lot to the great team!

I had to do an operation of the fracture of my little finger that happened during vacation in the South of Turkey. The organization was supported by Alisher Durdiyev and was very quick and helpful, even during the late evening. The surgery could be organized very quickly, the doctor Levent Yalcin, one of the rare hand surgeons, was extremely good, could incorporate my wishes and I was back with my family very quickly. The teams of nurses and doctors in the hospital was very good. Thanks a lot to the great team!

Istanbul Florence Nightingale Hospital Ali Levent Yalchin

Marina • Surgical treatment of scoliosis

Moldova

Aug 8, 2025

Verified review.

Doctors at the highest level

PLUSES Doctors at the highest level...professionalism, attention, responsibility felt during the whole stay...nothing unnecessary was said...no promises were made that could not be realised later...we were very satisfied with the results of their work.... Medical equipment may not be the latest models, but the penultimate certainly ... The food is very tasty... The facilities in the ward create a comfortable stay... The location of the clinic is good... Many hotels of different categories within walking distance..... MINUSES The medical staff and service staff (cleaning of the ward) wish to be better...the clinic needs a little more review of the process of care of medical staff for patients...at night when the patient before surgery or after surgery should gain strength and rest, begins frequent going to the room...then the temperature to measure, then the pressure, then remembering about the drip to connect the next or remove the forgotten.... Another disadvantage is the proposal-proform with an indication of what services are included in the paid amount, and which are not ... I would like a more specific list...taking into account that the treatment plan has changed, the amount to be paid has also changed, and there is always a question whether it is paid or whether it is necessary to pay additionally...which causes inconvenience and worries "whether you have enough money".... The general impression of the clinic was good...despite the disadvantages.....

Professionalism of the medical team

Nursing and housekeeping.

About Bookimed service

Very grateful to Stanislav...all questions were always answered in a short period of time..... any misunderstandings that arose were resolved quickly.....

Memorial Ataşehir Hospital

Volodymyr Kopysov Kopysov • Ankylosing spondylitis

Ukraine

Oct 16, 2025

Verified review.

I am satisfied with everything

He completed a two-week rehabilitation course. I improved my condition, I am satisfied with everything. The staff are professionals. Special thanks to Kenan for his support and resolution of all issues. I liked the treatment programme. With my diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis, it was possible to improve the condition of my spine and partially restore mobility. I recommend it, I will come back again.

schedule, treatment, staff

-

Fizyomer Terapia Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation & Aesthetic & Dental Medical Center

Carl Jensen • Hip replacement

Paraguay

Aug 23, 2025

Verified review.

Dr

It's now been about 1 1/2 months post surgery and I am pleased with the progress of my recovery. It seems that the implant and hip have aligned themselves nicely with the rest of the leg and foot . I can walk quite well. It seems that improving the strength in my leg will lead to greater recovery. I was pleasantly surprised by the professionalism , knowledge and concern of all people involved ; especially Booki Med med coordinator Dr. Olha who exhibited limitless patience and concern for my problems. The hospital was first rate and those within, I felt, were truly concerned with my situation

Lokman Hekim Istanbul Hospital

Larisa Petrova • Hip fracture

Canada

Dec 11, 2023

Verified review.

Operation at the highest level! Be sure to take an accompanying person with you! You will not be able to do without this or hire a Person through a coordinator to serve for 3 weeks

About Bookimed service

Regular support on all issues

Turan Turan Health Group

Melvin • Hand surgery

United States of America

Jan 22, 2026

Verified review.

the full experience was so very nice to navigate

Considering that we were traveling into Istanbul late on Saturday night, my support member was still texting with me and the doctor on a Sunday so that I was able to see the doctor Monday morning and then booked into surgery the following day. That would not happen other places, and the full experience was so very nice to navigate!!

With the help of Bookimed getting me in touch with the best doctor for my needs, I cannot be happier with the result of my surgery. The whole process was so easy and everyone involved was so very kind and helpful.

Only that I needed the procedure in the 1st place.

About Bookimed service

I would not hesitate to contact again for any future needs and will tell anyone I know to not worry about using this great service.

Gayrettepe Florence Nightingale Hospital

Olga Seitova • Consultation with an orthopaedist

Kazakhstan

Feb 15, 2025

Verified review.

I liked the doctor's professionalism, competence, ability to explain the causes of pain in an accessible way, to show clearly the planned treatment, and also to warn about the need for further 'self-doctor' behaviour for further recovery of health

I liked the doctor's professionalism, competence, ability to explain the causes of pain in an accessible way, to show clearly the planned treatment, and also to warn about the need for further "self-doctor" behaviour for further recovery of health. The attitude of the staff is excellent.

Memorial Ataşehir Hospital

Darya Trebka • Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Belarus

Jan 2, 2025

Verified review.

I am thrilled with my trip for the surgery! 🚀💯

I want to express my immense gratitude to Dr. Kayhan Turan and the Team for the surgery!!! In addition to the excellent surgery, I received support with all my questions and concerns, so I didn’t have to worry about anything. Eldar kept everything under control. I loved absolutely everything—from the transfer to staying in the hospital in my own private room with a companion. I also appreciated the opportunity to take the physiotherapy equipment to my hotel room, allowing me to do the exercises there instead of going to the hospital. And, of course, the wonderful support from Eldar was truly outstanding! Thanks to Dr. Hanna from Bookimed Support for your help during the initial stages of choosing a clinic (this is the best clinic I could choose, I'm very happy) and for your continued support throughout my entire trip, and thank you, Aboush! I am thrilled with my trip for the surgery! 🚀💯

Excellent surgery Eldar's assistance 🚀💯 Affordable prices

About Bookimed service

I will definitely recommend Turan Turan Health Group 100%! I am thrilled with my trip for the surgery!

Turan Turan Health Group Kayhan Turan

Anonymous • Ankylosing spondylitis

Kyrgyzstan

Mar 3, 2025

Verified review.

I would like to share my experience of an examination in Turkey. The Bookimed service helped me a lot when choosing a clinic - they quickly selected several options, took into account my wishes and even helped me with the organisation of my trip. In the end, I chose a clinic that fully met my expectations. The clinic itself was modern, with highly qualified doctors and attentive staff. I was met directly at the airport, accompanied at all stages, and the medical care was top-notch. A huge thank you to Bookimed for their help in my search and to the clinic for their professionalism and warm welcome! I would recommend this service and clinic to anyone looking for quality treatment abroad.

Memorial Bahçelievler Hospital

Share this content

Twitter X Linkedin Facebook WhatsApp Email

Get link

Updated: 03/06/2026

Authored by

Head of Content Marketing Team

A certified medical writer with 10+ years of experience, developed Bookimed’s trusted content, backed by a Master’s in Philology and medical expert interviews worldwide.

Reviewed by Bookimed Medical Advisor

Medical Editor & Data Scientist

General practitioner. Winner of 4 scientific awards. Served in Western Asia. Former Team Leader of a medical team supporting Arabic-speaking patients. Now responsible for data processing and medical content accuracy.

This page may feature information relating to various medical conditions, treatments, and healthcare services available in different countries. Please be advised that the content is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice or guidance. Please consult with your doctor or a qualified medical professional before starting or changing medical treatment.