When you need spinal surgery, you may feel overwhelmed with everything involved. One way to make it easier is to build a positive working relationship with your orthopedic surgeon’s office. You will rely on the nurses and office staff to answer your questions and provide instruction before and after your surgery. The best orthopedic surgeons in Florida usually try to employ nurses and office staff that are not only knowledgeable but also compassionate and caring. There are a few things you can do to make sure that the office has everything they need to ensure that your surgery and recovery process goes smoothly.
Arrange for Transfer of All Files and Medical Records
One of the most important aspects of working with a new doctor’s office is insuring that they have all of your medical records. A doctor’s office can request your records from all of your physicians, but it’s important that you follow up to ensure that they received everything. You want not only your medical history, but also any hospital records, including x-rays, MRI results, lab work, and slides that your doctor has on file. These records help your orthopedic determine if you need any more tests and what type of procedure to recommend to correct your problem.
Keep Your Doctor Aware of Any Medication Changes
Even the best orthopedic surgeons in Florida won’t know if your other doctors have changed your medications unless you inform the office. Because it’s possible that you’ll be on a variety of pain medications following your back surgery, it’s important that you let your spine surgeon know if you start taking a different medication or change the dosage of a current medication. Some doctors’ offices work well together, but other offices will depend on you to report medication changes.
Call with Specific Information
When it comes to working with the best orthopedic surgeons Florida has to offer, you’ll notice quickly that the office is busy. If you have any questions before your procedure that you forget to ask the doctor at your visit, call the office and ask. Make sure to have your questions written down so that the nurse can get your answers and get back with you in a timely manner. If you make numerous calls because you forget what you wanted to ask, it will just take longer for you to get answers.
The same is true after your surgery. If you fear something is wrong, make sure you write down your symptoms. Whether you have fever or swelling at the incision site, give the nurse all of the information that you can so she can speak with the doctor and they can determine if you need to be seen before your next follow-up. By being proactive with your health care, you can build a positive working relationship with your orthopedic’s office and know that you’re getting the best care.
