Denton County Living Well Magazine Winter 2015

Q: What other factors should a patient consider before delaying an elective, orthopedic surgery? A: Heier: While many surgeries are ideally suited to be performed at the end of the calendar year, there are many factors to consider before holding off until the Holiday season. Patients need to allow for plenty of time to have the surgery, participate in therapy and recover fully. Should a complication arise, there will be plenty of time to address this without the worry of further financial constraints and worrying about the start of a New Year and new deductible. Even though deductibles may be met by the end of the year, many people will have their deductibles reset January 1st. This means physical therapy, medicines, x-rays and MRI’s, durable medical equipment (braces and boots) and other similar items may not be covered under the surgery deductible. A: Goodhart: In those cases where permanent damage is unlikely to occur, waiting until the deductible is more complete and then having the surgery performed is certainly acceptable. Just keep in mind that should more therapy then expected or should a complication arise having met your deductible early will pay off mentally and physically. Q: What steps would you suggest a patient take before scheduling an elective surgery? A: Heier: Talk to your physician and fami H]\

Denton County Living Well Magazine Winter 2015 | Page 15