If your GP tells you that you need to see a consultant and
you would prefer to go privately, or if after seeing an NHS consultant you
decide you would like to see a private specialist for a second opinion, take
your NHS test results, details and information with you so that you won't have
to repeat expensive scans or x-rays. Ask for these from your GP.
When attending the consultation at the hospital or clinic,
self paying patients should go prepared to pay
the consultation fee on the day. Insured patients should take their
registration documents and completed claim form/proof of pre-authorisation by
the medical insurer. The consultation
process establishes whether you are a good candidate for the operation(s), and
is a good opportunity for you to learn about anything the surgeon requires you
to do beforehand; for example, lose weight or take certain vitamins to help the
recovery process.
You should avoid drinking alcohol and cut back on smoking in
the days leading up to your hospital stay and follow fasting instructions
before a general anaesthetic. You should
inform the hospital if you have a cold/flu or feel unwell beforehand as the
operation may need to be rescheduled.
Check with friends or family and make the necessary
arrangements for someone to drop you off and take you home after the procedure. Depending on your circumstances, you may want
to ask if someone can stay with you for a few days afterwards. If you are staying overnight in the hospital
(or longer) you will need to take a few things with you such as sleep wear,
slippers and dressing gown, and comfortable day clothing.
Pack any toiletries, books or personal items as well as any
medications and hand these to the nurse in charge when you arrive. It is best to leave valuable jewellery, large
sums of money or electronic equipment at home.
Don’t forget to tell the nurse in charge about any special dietary
requests and any allergies you have.
- It is important that you ask the following questions before
going into hospital:
- What can you expect after the
operation?
- What complications could there be
and what is the likelihood of complications for this operation?
- How much pain is it normal to
expect after the operation? How long
will the pain last?
- How long will you be in hospital
for?
- When can you have visitors?
- What help will you need after the
operation? And for how long?
- When will you be able to go home,
and how long before you can return to work?
- What restrictions will there be
on your normal activities after the operation?
For example, driving/climbing stairs/running/playing sport/having
sex/having a bath/shower?
- When will you need to come back
for a follow up appointment?
