what to know?

[breakingwaves]

My visit with this cardiologist is tomorrow, and I am trying to prepare myself, I still don't quite knoiw what to expect. what will he expect of me? will he ask my decision of my hospital and therefore surgeon? I know he will go over my echo report and I have the first responses to go from for that, but what other things must I know. Insurance or is that something he knows better than me? I keep feeling like I sound like a twit and the way I am feeling I just don't want to look that way tomorrow. also traveling outside of my area for the surgery, how much influnence will he mpst likey have, what priority is placed on convience. does he rrefer me to a surgeon, or do I make the case. the surgeon I was told he advised someone else has done not so many valve replacements., seems like bypass surgeries.

 

[geebee]

I think you should go armed with info but also keep in mind that most of the discussion may be prompted by the info he provides.
Your insurance company will require pre-authorization for surgery so they may have the say as to where you go. The choice of a surgeon may be governed by the choice of hospitals. Certainly your cardio will have suggestions as to a surgeon but, unless surgery is an emergency, you have time to do your homework after your visit with the cardio.
What you need to find out is just what is needed/suggested and how fast it should take place. Get the name(s) of the recommended surgeon(s) and find out what hospital he operates at. You should then get in touch with your insurance company to find out if that surgeon/hospital is an option. Providing it is, you can then find out (internet, phone calls, etc.) just what experience the surgeon has. Make sure your cardio knows you want a surgeon that has a great deal of experience with the type of surgery you need, not just heart surgery in general. Take lots of notes and DO NOT be intimidated into cutting the visit short if you still have more questions. This is not a new statement and may sound trite but "the only dumb question is the one not asked".
Good luck,
Gina

 

[Mary]

You've got time to sort this out later. Listen to what he says, and ask him when he thinks surgery will take place. Ask if he recommends anyone in particular. Then tell him you'll get back to him.

They don't give you a tremendous range of options, so I'd wait and see what he says. You can always research and ask more questions at a later date.

People here will be able to help you more when you have specific information following your visit.
Mary
Mary