How long will it take to schedule my surgery?
You will receive a call from our scheduling coordinator within 2 to 3 days of your appointment to discuss dates for your surgery. However, if your surgeon requests clearance from your doctor(s), your surgery will not be scheduled until this is received along with test results. If due to clearance or other issues, your surgery does not take place within a month from your initial office visit, we will need to see you again in the office. The doctors are required to update your medical history before surgery can be scheduled.
Will I need to contact my insurance regarding authorization for my surgery?
Once surgery is scheduled, our precertification specialist will contact either your primary care doctor or your insurance to obtain authorization if one is required. Understand that we have no control on how quickly the authorization is obtained, but we will do our best to expedite the process. Some managed care plans require up to 7 days, or more, for authorizations.
How much money will I have to pay for my surgery?
Insurance plans vary and the best way to find out quickly is to call the number on the back of your card to inquire about your benefits. Also, be aware you will incur other charges including the facility, anesthesia or other providers who participate in your care, and each one bills separately. Once we obtain benefits for the surgeon, we will contact you with your financial responsibility. Please know due to the volume of patients, you may not hear from us until a few days before surgery.
Is there a charge for my post-operative visit?
If you had a major surgery, your post- operative visit will be included in the surgery charge. If you had minor surgery or procedures such as breast core biopsies, colonoscopy or EGD, you will be responsible for the office visit copay or co-insurance.
How long will it take to recover from my surgery?
Patient recovery times vary depending on their age, health, and type of surgery performed. Patients that have laparoscopic procedures tend to recover more quickly. Open procedures may take more time to recover.
How can I help in my recovery from surgery?
It is very important to remain active after surgery. Depending on your age and overall health continue walking as much as possible. This will help you recover and slowly get back to your normal routine. Some surgeries will require restriction on how much weight you can lift, push, or pull and this will be discussed with you at your visit.
What is the difference between a D.O., doctor of osteopathic medicine and M.D., medical doctor?
They both attend four years of medical school and complete the same residency programs. A doctor of osteopathy (D.O.) is very much like a traditional medical doctor (M.D.), but receives additional training in the body’s musculoskeletal system. This training teaches D.O.s to examine, diagnose and treat the body as a whole, rather than treating a single illness or symptom. A doctor of osteopathy takes a more holistic approach to medicine by looking at the body as a complete system, instead of placing emphasis on one particular part.