FAQ
SURGERY
What is the process for scheduling surgery?
Our surgeons operate at many surgical facilities and Hospitals throughout San Diego. There are many factors to consider when scheduling your surgery. Once our scheduler has verified insurance benefits and verified your medical history she or he will contact you to go over dates, times and location.
Non-urgent/elective cases: Typically we try to get all surgeries scheduled within 1-2 weeks from the date of the appointment. However insurance, medical history and availability play a major role with this process. Our scheduler will contact you within 48 hours from the date of your appointment to initiate the process. Surgery will be scheduled once all required information has been received.
Urgent cases: If your surgeon has stated that your surgery must be done within a certain timeframe our staff will begin working on your case immediately. Please ensure that our staff has your correct contact information and expect to hear from us within 24hours from the date of your appointment.
How long is the recovery time?
Each case is different. Typically recovery for minor cases is 3-4 weeks whereas the larger cases can vary from 1-6 months depending on the case. Your surgeon will give you a more definitive answer to this question during your office visit.
Will I receive written instructions?
We’ve got you covered. You will be provided with a surgical folder that will contain any/all surgical details needed pertaining to your case.
What do I need to bring with me on the day of surgery?
You will be asked for a photo ID and your inusrance card. Make sure you leave anything valuable at home. Remove all jewlery. Make sure to wear loose comfortable clothing.
What time should I arrive on the day of my surgery?
Make sure you arrive at the time given to you by the facility. The pre-op nurse will call you a few days prior to the scheduled procedure. He or She will give you direct instructions.
Should I get my medication filled prior to surgery?
Our staff will send the medication directly to your pharmacy electronically. Please ensure that our staff has the correct pharmacy details on file. We strongly recommend that you pick up your prescription before your procedure so that you have it waiting for you when you get home after surgery.
Will I stay overnight or be discharged the same day of surgery?
Each case is different. Generally the goal is to have all patients go home the same day. However, for larger or more extensive cases, you may need to stay overnight at a surgical facility for a 23 hour hold or 1-2 days in a hospital setting. Remember medical history, procedure and in some cases insurance play a major role in this decision.
Do I need a ride home from Surgery?
Yes. You will need a ride home from a family member or friend after your procedure. It is recommended that you have someone stay with you for at least 24 hours to ensure your safety after surgery.
Do I need a Covid test if I am fully vaccinated?
As we know the covid restrictions change frequently depending on the amount of covid cases in the county. As of today, surgical facility no longer require a negative covid test with 3-5 days prior to your procedure regardless of vaccination status. Each facility has their own protocol and may perform their own testing on the day of surgery. The surgical facility will contact you with instructions.
NEW PATIENTS
I need to schedule an appointment but don’t know who to schedule with?
Don’t worry. Our staff is here to help. Contact the office for assistance. We will ask you questions and determine which location and provider can treat your condition. You can also send an email to info@ortho1.com and one of our helpful staff will contact you directly.
I don’t know if you take my insurance?
We are contracted with most insurances such as Medicare, Tricare, PPO and EPO plans as well as some HMO and Medi-Cal plans. Upon scheduling provide the name of your insurance and subscriber ID and we will check benefits for you.
Do I have to pay upfront for services?
All copays are due at the time of service. Our friendly staff will verify benefits and will be able to provide you with the cost (if any) before the appointment. If you have a deductible you may have to pay for services upfront. Our staff will explain any/all payment information before the scheduled appointment.
How soon can I get an appointment?
We can generally fit most new patient appointments on the schedule the same week or the following week depending on the condition. Contact our office and we can assist.
