As communities begin to reopen, you may be wondering if and when you can schedule an elective surgical procedure. By considering the latest health care guidelines and talking with your physician, you can make the best decision for you.
To start, let’s review what elective procedures are, and how you can make informed health care decisions about them with some helpful information and tips.
Elective Surgeries Explained
Elective surgery is a general term that’s sometimes confused with optional surgery. But elective surgeries are almost always necessary at some point. With elective surgeries on hold, you or a loved one may have been waiting months for treatment.
The place to start in deciding how to move forward is to check with your physician to understand if your procedure is considered elective, urgent or somewhere in between.
Types of Elective Procedures and Surgeries
If your procedure or surgery is considered elective, that means you’re at less risk for serious harm if it’s delayed. Elective procedures may include:
Some kinds of surgery are elective but may be more urgent. These can include:
Even if your procedure or surgery is considered elective, it’s important to remember that worsening symptoms may require urgent attention. Call your physician right away if symptoms become more severe.
How We Ensure Your Safety With Elective Surgery
In any AdventHealth facility, you can rest assured that there are adequate numbers of trained staff and supplies, including PPE and other hospital equipment. You can also expect that your surgery will be performed in an area that’s separate from where patients with coronavirus are being treated. This separation protects you and your health care team.
Extra Safety Precautions in Place
We’ve always had universal safety precautions for everyone in the hospital and operating room. Now, they are enhanced. You can have peace of mind knowing that our hospitals and centers have put additional safety measures in place to protect you, including:
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Required masks for everyone in our hospitals, centers and physicians’ offices
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Separate care areas for anyone who has or is suspected of having COVID-19
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Temperature testing for all employees, patients and visitors
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Visitor restrictions
In addition, you’ll notice signs and chair covers in patient areas to encourage social distancing. You may also have the option to check in through the AdventHealth App to avoid unnecessary person-to-person contact.
When to Schedule Your Elective Procedure
We’re working to ensure you get the care you need, when you need it. If you’ve had to cancel an elective procedure in recent months, it’s important to make an appointment with your physician to discuss a new timeframe for your procedure, as well as how you can best manage your symptoms while you wait. Many of our physicians are even offering virtual visits through telemedicine.
Other Ways to Protect Your Health
Taking care of your ongoing condition is just one part of staying healthy. You can protect your health by practicing social distancing and using a cloth face mask when you’re outside of your home. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use a sanitizer that’s at least 60% alcohol. Cover your coughs and sneezes, and clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
We’re Ready When You’re Ready
Our Surgical Care teams are here to support you at every step while helping you feel as confident and safe as possible while accessing our care. Our experts are available to guide you and answer your questions, whether it’s in the office or through a virtual visit.
