Preparing for your hospital visit
Contact Information
Website: aurorahealthcare.org
Overview: Preparing for a hospital visit—whether for an outpatient or routine procedure—is an important step to ensure your experience is as smooth and cost-effective as possible. Hospital fees typically include components such as the facility charge, professional fees, and sometimes anesthesia or supply costs. To avoid unexpected expenses, it’s wise to request an itemized estimate ahead of time and clarify what is and isn’t included in your quoted fee. Arranging transportation and understanding pre-procedure instructions can also help minimize complications and additional charges.
Key Cost Components
- Facility Charge: Covers the use of the hospital or clinic space, equipment, and support staff.
- Professional Fees: Payment for the surgeon, anesthesiologist, and any consulting specialists.
- Supplies and Medications: Includes surgical supplies, medications, and post-procedure care materials.
- Post-Procedure Observation: Costs for monitoring and recovery, even for outpatient procedures.
Associated Costs to Consider
- Pre-operative lab tests or imaging
- Post-procedure medications or therapies
- Follow-up appointments
- Transportation or overnight accommodations, if needed
Insurance & Payment Advice
- Verify with your insurer that the procedure is covered and whether pre-authorization is required.
- Ask your provider for a detailed, itemized estimate before your visit.
- Confirm which providers (e.g., anesthesiologists) are in-network to avoid surprise bills.
- Inquire about payment plans or financial assistance if you anticipate difficulty covering your portion.
Preparation and Recovery Tips
- Follow fasting or medication instructions carefully to avoid delays or cancellations.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home, as sedation or anesthesia can impair your ability to drive.
- Bring only essential personal and health information; leave valuables at home.
- Ask about expected side effects and recovery timeline before your procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What should I bring to my hospital appointment? Bring your insurance card, a list of medications, identification, and any required paperwork. Only bring essential personal items, and leave valuables at home.
- Why do I need someone to drive me home after an outpatient procedure? Anesthesia or sedation can impair your ability to drive safely. Most facilities require a responsible adult to accompany you home for your safety.
- Can I eat or drink before my procedure? This depends on the procedure and type of anesthesia. Always confirm with your care team; fasting is often required for several hours before your appointment.
- How can I estimate my total out-of-pocket costs? Request a detailed, itemized estimate from the hospital. Contact your insurance company to verify coverage and determine your deductible, copay, and coinsurance obligations.
- Are there costs not included in the quoted procedure fee? Yes, items like pre-op labs, imaging, anesthesia, and post-procedure prescriptions may be billed separately. Always clarify what the quoted fee includes.
- What if I can’t afford the out-of-pocket costs? Ask about payment plans or financial assistance programs offered by the hospital before your procedure.
- What happens if I have an unexpected reaction or complication? Additional care or extended observation could result in extra charges. Check your insurance coverage for complications and ask your provider for details in advance.
- Will I receive multiple bills for a single hospital visit? It’s possible. Physicians, anesthesiologists, and the facility may bill separately. Ask for a list of all providers involved and verify their network status.
- How soon will I know the final amount I owe? It may take several weeks to process claims and receive final bills. Keep all estimates and statements for reference and follow up with your insurer if you notice discrepancies.
- How can I avoid unexpected charges? Request written, itemized estimates in advance, verify insurance coverage, and clarify in-network providers. Ask specifically about any potential additional fees.
Before your hospital visit, confirm when you should arrive. Find out whether or not you’re allowed to eat or drink before your appointment. Also, make sure to arrange for someone to drive you home – even if you are having an outpatient or routine procedure.
What to bring
Insurance and health information, including:
- All insurance cards, including Medicare or Medicaid cards, if applicable
- A list of your current medications. If you are staying overnight, bring any medications you are currently taking, in the original bottle
- Employer information for worker’s compensation claims
- Information on the person responsible for the bill
- Automobile insurance card, if your visit is the result of an automobile accident
- Your health history, including past surgeries, hospitalizations and allergies
- Your doctor’s full name, address and phone number
- Preauthorization, referrals and/or any other information about why you are at the hospital
- A copy of your advance directive
Personal information, including:
- Photo identification (driver’s license, military or government-issued card)
- Birth certificate copy for minors
- Phone numbers, addresses and emergency contact information
Personal items, including:
- Hearing aids and extra batteries
- Assistive devices, such as a walker or a cane
- Shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, denture cup, comb or brush, shaver, lip balm and lotion
- Slippers and a robe
- A phone calling card if you think you’ll need to make long-distance calls
- Reading material, such as books and magazines
What not to bring
- Valuables, such as money, credit cards, jewelry (including body piercings), purse or wallet
- Cell phones
- Computers or video games
- Food (we cannot store food for you)
