Many
patients are unaware of the steps associated and the amount of time each step
takes with scheduling an orthopedic surgery. This is especially important if you are
waiting until you've met your insurance deductible to schedule surgery and would
like to have your procedure completed before the end of the year. In this blog, we will take you through the
timeline from calling to schedule an appointment to
the post-surgery recovery process, so you can plan ahead
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Evaluation
Your
orthopedic journey begins with an initial
consultation. Whether you are dealing with a knee injury, back pain, or
any musculoskeletal issue, our experienced orthopedic specialists will conduct
a comprehensive evaluation. During this appointment, we will discuss your
symptoms, medical history, and explore non-surgical treatment options whenever
possible. It is essential to explore all conservative treatments before
considering surgery.
Step 2: Scheduling the Surgery
Timeline: 1-8 weeks or longer
If you
and your orthopedic surgeon have decided that surgery is the best option, it is
time to schedule the procedure. This process can vary depending on factors like
the type of procedure and your surgeon's availability. It could be scheduled
anywhere from one to eight weeks out.
Step 3: Insurance and Deductibles
Timeline: 1-30 days
Understanding
your insurance coverage is crucial. Once your deductible is met, your insurance
will typically cover a more substantial portion of the surgery costs, making it
more affordable for you. Your insurance will also need to authorize the surgery
and that can take up to a month.
Step 4: Preparing for Surgery
Timeline: 45 days before
surgery
Leading
up to the surgery date, there are several essential preparations to consider
like discussing medication adjustments and pre-operative testing. You may need
to undergo specific tests or evaluations to ensure you are in optimal health
for surgery. It is also important to make driving arrangements to and from the
surgery and with work in case you may need to take a couple of days off to
recover.
Step 5: Day of Surgery
On the
day of your surgery, arrive on time and check in with your care team. Our
expert team will ensure you are comfortable and well-prepared. The time spent
in the operating room can vary and you may be able to go home the same day.
Step 6: Post-Surgery Recovery
Now that
you're on the road to a healthier and happier you, here is what you can expect:
· Post-Surgery Instructions: Thoroughly
review your educational materials and be sure to follow your doctors'
instructions to ensure the best outcomes after surgery.
· Physical Therapy: Most
orthopedic surgeries require a period of physical therapy to regain strength
and mobility. This is an important step to ensure a faster and better recovery.
· Follow-Up Appointments:
Regular follow-up appointments with your orthopedic surgeon are essential to
monitor your progress.
At Resurgens
Orthopaedics, we are committed to helping you achieve a pain-free and active
lifestyle. If you have questions about scheduling your orthopedic surgery
or need guidance on the recovery process, do not hesitate to reach out to our
knowledgeable team. We are here to support you every step of the way, from
diagnosis to full recovery.