Choose an ASC for “Elective” Knee and Hip Procedures

Many hospitals and healthcare facilities are delaying elective surgeries and procedures, but it’s important to remember your joint procedure is important for your mobility and health.

COVID-19 Delays Elective Procedures

Did your knee, hip or shoulder surgery get delayed because of the pandemic? With the resurgence of COVID-19, many hospitals are reallocating resources and delaying elective procedures. Some common orthopedic procedures include:

• Knee replacement
• Hip replacement
• Shoulder replacement
• Arthroscopy
• Joint fusion
• Joint surgery
• Soft tissue repair

The term “elective” does not refer to the importance of having the procedure. Instead, it distinguishes between surgeries for emergencies and surgeries that can be scheduled in advance.

Most joint surgeries are considered elective procedures because you can schedule them for a future date. However, that doesn’t mean they’re not essential for your joint health.

Importance of Prompt Orthopedic Procedures

Joint pain can prevent you from living an active lifestyle and doing the things you love. A canceled or delayed orthopedic procedure means you may experience:

• Stiff and swollen joints
• Sleeplessness at night
• Inability to use stairs
• Limps or changes in your gait
• Increased risk of falls or fractures

Consider an Ambulatory Surgery Center for Orthopedic Procedures

Even though some hospitals have pushed back procedures like joint replacement and orthopedic surgeries, you have another option. Scheduling your procedure at an ambulatory surgery center (ASC) may be a good choice for several reasons:

• Outpatient surgery centers dedicate themselves to specific procedures, not emergency or trauma, so your appointment may be less likely to be affected.
• Because ASCs are smaller than hospitals, they are easily navigable and usually have convenient parking.
• Your procedure may be more cost-effective at an ASC than a hospital.
• Some patients say that ASCs feel home-like and comfortable.

Schedule Your Orthopedic Surgery Before Deductible Resets

Have you met your deductible already? Schedule your procedure before the end of the calendar year to take full advantage of your health plan benefits. Your deductible will reset in January, so contact your insurance company to verify your status. A total joint replacement may be less costly than you may think.

Find an Orthopedic Surgeon in Your Area

You don’t have to live with daily knee pain or hip pain. Our orthopedic surgeons perform most bone and joint procedures at ambulatory surgery centers. Click here to enter your zip code and locate a specialist near you. Then, call one of the specialists in your area to make an appointment and discuss surgery.