What To Do When You Need Surgery

By Paul da Costa on January 30, 2015

The Associated Press recently released an article giving tips to individuals who receive a diagnosis that requires surgery. In particular, the article advocated that those who need surgery obtain a second opinion before proceeding.

Experts also recommend that the patient ask their diagnosing doctor if there are any alternative treatments or options. Under New Jersey’s informed consent law, doctors are obligated to disclose and discuss treatment options that they themselves do not necessarily recommend, or are experienced in performing, if the treatment options fall within the medical standard of care. Thus, patients should always ask their doctors if there are any reasonable alternative surgical options that exist, even if their doctor cannot perform the alternative surgical options. Second, the article advocates that patients ask their doctor for recommendations on surgeons and hospitals for performing the surgery. Next, if the surgery will take place at a hospital considerably far from where the patient lives, the article says that the patient should call the hospital beforehand, and in particular, should ask if the hospital needs any medical records or insurance information before the procedure.

Last, the article counsels that patients should ask their doctors a number of questions before undergoing surgery. For example, the patient should inquire as to the doctor’s previous experience performing this type of surgery, potential complications, how long the surgery will take, and the average hospital stay for patients undergoing the same procedure.

It is important when undergoing surgery that patients receive the utmost care. If you or a loved one, however, was injured while undergoing surgery, you may have a medical malpractice claim. To obtain compensation for your injuries, call Paul M. da Costa, Esq. at Snyder & Sarno, LLC at (973) 274-5200.