Elective Surgery
The road to elective surgery often starts in the surgeon’s office. A patient is seen for a complaint, the surgeon evaluates, the diagnosis is made, and a surgery is scheduled. Depending on the urgency of the problem the case is scheduled anywhere from one week to 2 months out. This is often influenced by the surgeon’s schedule or that of the operating room. You may also have to schedule time away from work which could influence the decision.
Surgeon Schedules
Surgeons often schedule most of their cases on one day of the week and if that day fills up they may not want to schedule the next case until their next full day in the operating room. They do not like to schedule solo cases on off days unless they are emergencies.
Most surgeons are assigned a special day or time of day in every hospital or surgicenter to do their work. The busier the surgeon the greater the time slots that are assigned by the operating rooms. Some surgeons may operate almost every day but not the entire day. Remember they still have to see patients in the office for new evaluations or to review their post-operative course.
There will be days when a surgeon may have to work additional unscheduled hours in the operating room due to any emergency that may occur in the evening. To remain on staff most surgeons must take call in the emergency room. Sometimes these patients will have to go to the operating room quickly and the surgeon will have no option but to operate on their day off. Most operating rooms keep a room open for such emergencies.
Best to be Patient
Even though we want our problems dealt with quickly, it is best to be patient. If you trust your surgeon, it is best to have him or her on a regular working day rather than at the end of a long day when they are fatigued or an off day when they are rushed. Remember, your surgeon is human and you want to give them the opportunity to be at their best.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I choose my favorite Anesthesia Provider?
In most cases this can happen, but you may want to make this request well in advance in your surgeon’s office or at the time you see someone for an anesthesia consultation. This request must get to the anesthesia providers that manage the surgery center so that they can make the arrangements. In most cases they will usually make an attempt to fulfill your request.
Can I ask for a woman provider?
This is a common request especially from women. If you make this request in advance, it is very likely the staff will be able to comply with your wishes.
Can I schedule my day and time of surgery?
This is commonly asked by many patients. It is perfectly reasonable to ask this, but remember that many physicians do not operate every day of the week. They may be limited to certain days that fit their schedule. You may also consider that a surgeon may be better in the morning compared to the end of the day. Everyone is human and can be more prone to mistakes at the end of a long busy day.
Can I schedule surgery in my favorite hospital?
This is a good question but is totally dependent on where your doctor has privileges. This is a question you may want to ask early in your evaluation or possibly before you confirm that appointment. Most doctors have privileges in many hospitals and you may be able to go where you want, but there are no guarantees.
