Denton County Living Well Magazine Winter 2015 | Page 15

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™]\