LEARN MORE

AUGUST 2022

Is surgery your best choice?

If you’re faced with the decision of whether or not to have surgery, think about the pros and cons. It may seem overwhelming, but with your doctor’s help, you can lay out the risks and benefits. If you’re still not sure whether surgery is the right answer, contact 2nd.MD for an expert second opinion from a medical specialist. 2nd.MD is offered at no cost to employees and their dependents enrolled in a Costco medical plan.

Print

Looking for more? Find other articles below

Consider these 7 tips before making a decision

1. Learn what to expect.

Ask your surgeon to be specific about how an operation will help you. For instance, will it:

• Ease your pain or get rid of it?
• Improve how your body works?
• Keep your condition from getting worse?

Decide how important it is to get relief. Look at the impact your condition has on you now. Then ask yourself: Does it bother you or limit your lifestyle? Think about how likely it is that the operation will work. Ask your surgeon about the success rate and the percentage chance it will take your pain away. Ask how long the results will last and if you’ll need more procedures later. And compare that with what will happen if you don’t have the operation.

2. Review other treatment options.

Sometimes there are ways to handle a problem without surgery. Your doctor can explain your choices. For instance, lifestyle changes may improve certain conditions. Ask your doctor if that’s possible for you and whether you should consider it before you decide to have surgery.

You may be able to do what’s called “watchful waiting.” That means you hold off on surgery while your doctor keeps an eye on your health to see if it gets better, worse or stays the same.

But that may not always be the best option. Be sure to get your doctor’s opinion.

3. Check the risks.

Ask your surgeon about possible complications and how likely they are. No surgery is 100% risk free. Find out about the most common complications, as well as the worst thing that can happen. Then ask about the likelihood of each. That can help you make up your mind about surgery.

4. Review your surgeon’s background.

Some simple questions can reveal a lot about their skills:

• What’s your experience with this surgery?
• Who else will be operating on me?
• Are you board certified?
• How many times have you done this operation?
• What’s your success rate?

The quality of the hospital or medical facility also matters. Check its ratings and inspection history. Find out who will be on your team of caregivers and about their training and experience.

And remember, if you’re enrolled in Aetna’s medical plan, you can use the Aetna Smart Compare™ tool to find a provider who has earned the “Quality & Effective Care” designation.

5. Check your recovery period.

Ask your surgeon what to expect after the operation. Find out if you’ll need to stay in the hospital and how long it will take before you feel like yourself again. See if you need any supplies at home while you recover.

Look at how your recovery will affect your daily life. You might not be able to work at first, or you may need to wait for a bit until you’re allowed to lift your young child or drive to pick them up from day care or school.

6. Learn what costs are covered.

If you’re concerned about the costs associated with surgery, talk to your insurance company. They’ll be able to tell you which costs are covered and which aren’t covered. And, they will confirm whether or not you need pre-authorization for a procedure. Knowing what lies ahead financially can be very reassuring.

7. Get a second opinion.

2nd.MD is a team of health care professionals that can ensure you’re on the right path with your care. If you or a family member has an existing diagnosis or treatment plan, you can get a second opinion from a board-certified specialist. The 2nd.MD team will coordinate directly with your doctor’s office to obtain your medical records, scans and test results, so you don’t have to.

2nd.MD provides peace of mind:

The doctor was absolutely perfect, explained everything exactly how my surgeon explained the surgery… [she] reassured me that this is completely normal and she has performed this surgery many times and the outcome is the best for my case.

Source: WebMD. 7 tips to help decide if surgery is right for you.

Learn more about 2nd.MD from the resource information listed below.