Preparing for Surgery

For more information about our surgical services, please call the Ozarks Healthcare Surgical Services Department between the hours of 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at 417-257-5942 or 417-256-9111, ext. 6605.

The staff of Ozarks Healthcare Surgical Services knows that it is normal for a patient to feel apprehensive about any type of surgery and they want to make sure your experience is as stress-free as possible. The following guidelines will help you with your preparation for surgery.

Pre-Operative Tests

Lab work, EKG (heart monitoring) and X-rays, if required, must be completed at least 24 hours prior to your scheduled surgery. Your surgeon will schedule your pre-operative visit and discuss any pre-surgery test he/she has ordered. At your pre-operative visit, you will be given special instructions about how to prepare for your surgery.

The Day of Surgery

You will be contacted by the Ozarks Healthcare Surgical Services Department the day before your surgery to set an arrival time for your day of surgery. Please be assured you will have time to talk with your nurse and will receive all the necessary instructions for your care prior to your surgery.

Anesthesia

If your surgery requires anesthesia, a member of the Ozarks Healthcare Anesthesia Department will perform a medical evaluation, discuss anesthesia options, and explain possible anesthesia risks with you prior to surgery.

Visiting Policy

Although we understand the importance of having family members with you during both your pre-operative and recovery periods, we want to ensure your privacy and well-being. For this reason, visiting privileges may be limited if the nurse determines this to be necessary.

If you have any questions about your surgery, please call the Ozarks Healthcare Surgical Services Department between the hours of 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at 417-257-5942 or 417-256-9111, ext. 6605.

Financial Arrangements

Ozarks Healthcare will submit hospital claims to Medicare and Medicaid, as well as commercial insurance carriers if valid insurance information is presented upon admission to the medical center.

A financial counselor, located in the surgical services department, is available to assist you in meeting your financial obligations and may be reached at 417-257-6774.