Frequently Asked Questions

Will I be able to see my surgeon before surgery at 20th Street?
Yes. Your surgeon will speak with you prior to your procedure. He or she can answer any last minute questions you, or your visitors with your permission, may have regarding the procedure.

May I pre-register for my surgery?
At this time, we are able to email or fax blank documents to you to complete and bring with you the morning of surgery. If you would like us to do this, please request it during your preoperative conversation with our staff. The documents will not contain any identifying information about the patient or procedure.

If you are staying nearby the night before your surgery, we encourage you to come by the facility to meet our staff and pick up registration documents. You may complete them at your leisure the night before and return with them the day of your surgery.

Can my family in the waiting room know what’s happening with me during my surgery?
With your approval, our staff will make sure your family and visitors know what to expect regarding estimated waiting times and recovery at home. If they have questions or concerns during your procedure, they are welcome to ask any staff member for an update. Federal privacy laws prohibit us from discussing your condition with callers or visitors to the center unless we have your written permission. Please let us know with whom we are able to share information about your health when you register.

Can my assistant make arrangements for me?
In most instances and with your permission, we can arrange details of your procedure with your designated assistant. However, certain medical and sensitive information will need to be discussed with the patient only.

What food/drinks should I refrain from before my surgery?
If you have having a gastrointestinal endoscopy, you should follow the pre-procedure protocol as outlined by your physician. We strongly recommend avoiding greasy or spicy foods both immediately before and after surgery as this may increase the likelihood of post-operative nausea or vomiting.

Should I take my usual daily medications?
Please discuss this with your physician at your pre-operative appointment.

I’m very nervous – can I take an oral sedative the morning of surgery?
Your physician may have prescribed an oral sedative for you during your pre-operative conference. If they did not and you would like to request an oral sedative to take before arriving at the center, please let us know and we will contact your physician to discuss your request.

What if I need special accommodations?
We can accommodate almost any special need or requests you may have. Please let us know how we can make you more comfortable.

May I drive home?
Most of the procedures performed at 20th Street Surgery Center are done so with some type of sedation or general anesthesia. You may not drive for 24 hours after being sedated or while still taking pain medications after surgery. You must have someone readily available to drive you home and give their name and contact information upon registration.

What will I be expected to pay?
Each patient is individually preauthorized with their insurance company before surgery. Any out of pocket estimates for facility and anesthesia charges will be given to you before surgery.

Are payment arrangements available?
We typically require payment of out of pocket estimates on the date of service. However, if you are unable to pay in full at the time of service, please let our office know and we will assist in making payment arrangements for you.

How will you treat a patient without insurance?
We have very competitive cash prices for patients who do not have or choose to not use insurance for their procedures. Your physician’s office will discuss these fees with you prior to scheduling your case at 20th Street Surgery Center.