Preparation for an elective surgical procedure

It is of utmost importance that patients undergoing an elective surgical procedure understand the nature of their medical problem, the goals of the planned surgery and the potential risks of the procedure. It is also strongly recommended that close family members also have insight into the planned procedure and the associated risks. It is best to discuss these matters with the surgeon prior to admission to hospital.

Patients on a medical aid require pre-authorization from their medical fund prior to admission. Although the practice is happy to assist with this process, it remains the patient’s responsibility to obtain the necessary permissions prior to admission. Private, paying patients (not on medical aid) will require a quote for hospital costs and professional fees prior to admission. The hospital will require private patients to make a deposit for the full quoted amount prior to admission.

The different medical aid administrators vary in efficiency. It is not uncommon for submitted documents to get lost and for the process to be stalled. Dealing with medical aids through call-centres is time-consuming, expensive and frustrating!

Medical aids require the following information prior to authorization:

The diagnosis (ICD-10 code)

The procedure codes

Dr Welsh’s practice number 021 000 008 6622

The hospital practice number

Letter of motivation

Copies of radiology reports

Quotes for any instrumentation / prosthesis

Physician’s report (in some cases)

Nasal swabs (in some cases)

The practice can assist with this process and submit the required documents.