PREPARING FOR SURGERY
If you and your surgeon have decided that surgery is the best option for your treatment, you may have questions or concerns about your upcoming procedure. Your doctor is the best source for any questions, and can be reached at our office by calling 812-424-9291. Surgery is a big decision and often there are questions regarding the administrative process of planning a surgery. You may find the following information helps you feel at ease and prepared for your surgery.
When will surgery be scheduled?
We understand you have a busy schedule and need to notify your employer and/or family members as soon as possible. The length of time before you are notified varies by procedure and by insurance company. We will do our best to expedite the scheduling.
How will I be notified once my surgery has been scheduled?
While it is our goal to schedule your outpatient surgery before you leave the office, if your insurance requires authorization we will contact you. For inpatient surgeries, you will be contacted by our office once the surgery has been scheduled. In addition, you will receive a packet in the mail with specific information regarding pre-operative, post-operative and surgery appointment dates, including locations and times.
May I request a specific date, time or location for the surgery?
All efforts will be made to accommodate your requests. However, there are times when we are unable to satisfy all of your requests due to scheduling conflicts with the surgery center or hospital.
What should I expect at my pre-operative appointment?
Your pre-operative appointment will include a medical and cardiac assessment, lab work and you will be fit and provided with any durable medical equipment that is needed for your post-operative recovery.
Do I need to contact my insurance company?
We will start the approval process by contacting your insurance company for pre-certification and authorization. Authorization does not guarantee payment, but it does notify your insurance company of the procedure.
Although we do obtain pre-certification and authorization we do not verify your plan benefits, so we recommend you contact your insurance company for this information.
What if I have additional questions?
As you think of questions, write them down. There will be opportunity to have your questions answered at your pre-operative appointment. Questions may also be submitted via our patient portal or you may contact our office at 812-424-9291.
How should I prepare for my surgery date?
OA has developed the following preoperative instructions to help ensure a successful procedure.
- Nothing to eat or drink after midnight the night before your surgery.
- Someone MUST come with you to your surgery.
- You will need to arrive at the hospital 2 hours prior to your scheduled surgery time. If you are scheduled at the surgery center, you should plan to arrive 1 hour prior to your scheduled surgery time.
- Medication instructions will be discussed at your pre-op appointment. If you have further questions, please contact our office.