Question:
How far ahead can I have my pre-op tests?

My PCP has scheduled me for pre-op tests....but I haven't even been approved by my inusrance to have surgery yet... My insurance changed on 1/1/01 and I called my PCP to get a new referral to my surgeon. The PCP and the Surgeon have been corresponding as to what tests I should have but shouldn't I be approved for surgery before the tests are preformed? Won't the tests be "outdated" before I am approved and surgery is scheduled? I have an appointment to talk to my PCP next Monday but I thought I would check and see if anyone else had this happen to them. Any information would help ;) Thanks in advance Audra    — audra H. (posted on January 9, 2001)

January 9, 2001
Audra, I guess it would depend on the type of tests they are wanting to do. I went in yesterday and had my dietician, psych exam and talk with my surgeon. They scheduled my surgery for the 9th of Feb. I still need to get a sleep study, endoscopy something, and a stress test completed. They consider these "pre-op" tests (where I was thinking all the "pre-op" tests were like blood work, ekg, utlra sound, etc the week before surgery). So if they are wanting to rule out anything or to see if they can qualify you for this surgery another way (say with sleep apnea) then the tests should be done soon. I have not been approved by my insurance for the surgery yet, but I know that I need these tests done and it feels good to have a surgery date, even if I don't make that one!! Hope that helps somewhat!! Hugs Jann
   — paschool

January 9, 2001
My surgeon required they be done within 2 weeks of surgery.
   — Lisa B.