Frequently asked questions on scheduled surgeries
How can I be sure it’s safe to proceed with my surgery or procedure?
Our decision to proceed with scheduling surgeries and procedures will be determined by a number of factors, including monitoring the trajectory of the COVID-19 pandemic and guidance from both state health officials and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
How will my experience be different now compared to before COVID-19?
Several important precautionary measures have been implemented across our facilities, such as:
- Patients will be tested for COVID-19 at their surgeon’s discretion prior to their surgery or procedure.
- Screening processes, social distancing guidelines and masking policies are in place throughout our facility.
- Heightened infection prevention policies, such as the removal of high touch items when appropriate (e.g. in waiting rooms and other patient areas).
- We are prohibiting food and drinks in clinical units to help prevent the spread of illness.
- We continually review and update our visitor policies as appropriate to help keep colleagues and patients safe.
- We continue to follow current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines on hand hygiene and social distancing.
How can I be sure your facility is a safe care environment?
Our facility is among the safest possible places to seek care at this time, and we have implemented several protective measures to create a safe environment for our patients, visitors and colleagues. We have strong protocols in place and are following all guidelines set for the by the CDC to ensure a safe care environment.
How can I be confident my doctors and nurses don’t have COVID-19?
Staff and physicians are screened for COVID-19 symptoms and our clinical care team colleagues are not permitted to work if they are experiencing any respiratory symptoms. Universal masking is in place and we stocked with personal protective equipment (PPE) for all of our clinical teams.
Will my family be able to be with me? If so, what protections are in place for them?
We continue to maintain every precaution when keeping our patients, visitors, caregivers, and communities safe. Please review our current visitation policy. We have taken additional strong measures to ensure the safety of all involved, including changes to our waiting areas and communal spaces. Station areas and tables are distanced six feet apart to allow for social distancing, and we have removed public coffee and water stations. Signs will be present to remind everyone to keep their masks on and respect social distancing requirements.
Will my recovery be different? Will I be more likely to be infected with COVID-19 after a medical procedure?
Your surgeon will discuss the risks and benefits of surgery, including if there is an increased risk of contracting COVID-19. It is important that you maintain all precautions the general public are asked to follow. As always, we are here to support you in your recovery, regardless of any extenuating circumstances.
What if I’m experiencing symptoms similar to COVID-19?
If you are experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough or difficulty breathing, please let your provider know immediately.
If your facilities see an increase in COVID-19 patients, will you change your policies?
We are constantly evaluating our facilities’ resources, such as personal protective equipment (PPE) and bed availability, and making adjustments to our approach if and when protocols need to evolve. We also are in continuous communication with local healthcare delivery systems, including state and local health officials, and those surgeons who have direct responsibility for their patients. We continue to follow Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) recommendations as they evolve. Our facilities will accommodate procedures that physicians determine to be appropriate within those recommendations.
Where can I find more information about COVID-19?
Visit our Resource Hub for the latest updates on COVID-19. You can also find more information on the CDC’s website. Given the nature of policy updates, it’s always best to call your facility to verify the most up to date information.
*We make every effort to ensure our website information remains up to date. As specific guidelines and policies continue to evolve, please call our facility at (727) 521-4411 for updated information or questions regarding scheduled surgeries.