Meeting my Surgeon

At this point, you have been referred by your doctor to see a surgeon. Your surgeon will decide if you need surgery and then both of you will decide together what the next steps will be.

How can I prepare before meeting my surgeon?

• Your surgeon will want to know about your health and the medications you are taking.
• Please complete this Pre-op Patient Health History Questionnaire to the best of your ability and bring it with you when you visit your surgeon even if you are not sure you need surgery.
• Write down any important questions you want to ask your surgeon so you do not forget.
• Bring a paper and pen to write down important information given to you by your surgeon and team.
• Bring someone with you if you need special assistance or just want someone to attend the visit with you (only 1 person since space is limited).
• Follow all the instructions given to you by your surgeon’s office/clinic team.
• Bring a book or something to read in case your appointment is unexpectedly delayed.

What happens when I will need surgery?

Once a decision is made (by you and your surgeon) that you will have surgery, your surgeon will want you to complete some important forms.

What forms will I need to complete when I need surgery?

• If the Pre-op Patient Health History Questionnaire is not completed before your visit, you will be asked to complete it at the surgeon’s office or clinic.
• You will be asked to sign a Consent form for surgery. This form will be explained to you in more detail by your surgeon.
• Other forms may be required to be completed and signed at this visit.

How do I to prepare for my Surgery?

• Once all your questions about surgery have been answered, all important forms and special tests have been completed, your surgeon will schedule you for a Pre-Admission Unit appointment at The Ottawa Hospital.
• To prepare for this important appointment, please read the my Surgery Pre-Admission Unit Patient Education booklet (maps included)
• You and (your family) should also know about important policies before coming to the hospital, such as hand washing, visiting hours and guidelines, smoking policy, scent-free and violence in the workplace.
• Your surgical team will want to know that you have prepared for going home and that you have made the necessary arrangements before the day of your surgery.

Last updated on: August 11th, 2021