Your Examination Your neurosurgeon and his staff will interview you in the examination room. This will include a review of the medical history form you have completed and questions about your back problem. A comprehensive neurological and physical exam will be performed, and any diagnostic tests and X-rays, will be reviewed. Results of this exam may indicate the need for further-diagnostic tests, conservative therapies or possible, surgical recommendation. If Surgery is Required You may need to do several things to ensure that your insurance company has approved, the operation scheduled for you.
Many insurance companies require pre-certification and second opinions.
It is your responsibility to ask your insurance company about its particular requirements. If you have a pre-existing medical condition and are under a doctor's care, you will receive a consultation clearance form to be completed by your doctor. This should be faxed by your doctor to your neurosurgeon's office as soon possible, so surgery is not delayed. Also, plan to bring a copy of this form to the hospital's Same Day Surgery Unit on the day of your surgery. On the day of your office visit, you will receive a prescription for pre-surgical testing to detect any blood abnormalities.