Frequently Ask Questions
Is the practice affiliated with a teaching hospital? Will residents or students be in the operating room?
The Valley Hospital, one of our affiliate hospitals, is transitioning to become a teaching hospital. It is our position at the Heritage Surgical Group, that we do not operate with residents or students and you as the patient can be assured that the operating surgeon is in fact your attending physician. If residents or students are in the operating room it is for observational purposes only and you will be notified ahead of time and have the right to refuse.
What can I expect from my consultation?
During the initial consultation we will review your complete medical history, perform a physician exam, and discuss your surgical options, including risks and benefits of the procedure. Once we have decided that surgery is an option, we work with your corresponding doctors to optimize your health for surgery and gain clearance for the procedure to ensure that you are fit to undergo surgery safely. As we are optimizing you for surgery, our surgical coordinator will work with your insurance company to get you approved and help you schedule surgery.
Who do I call if I have a question after the procedure?
At any time during your recovery process you may contact your surgeon by calling 201-833-2888. Even after office hours there is always a Doctor on call ready to answer any questions.
How fast can I return to work after surgery?
Return to work is determined on a case by case basis and depends on the surgery and the type work that you do. Standard return to work ranges from two to six weeks.
How can I get a note for work?
You may request a work note via email or by calling 201-833-2888.
If you choose to email, include the following information – Your full name, date of birth, your surgeon’s name, date of surgery, last day at work, and return to work date.
How do I obtain my medical records?
You may request your medical records by email or calling 201-833-2888. We will send you a release form over email or fax which you will need to sign and return before we can release your medical records.
How do I apply for disability?
You should speak with your employer and find out the benefits you qualify for: State or Private disability. After you have the corresponding forms there are three things to do: fill out the patient portion, have your employer fill out their portion, and email or fax the medical portion to our office indicating your first and last name and the first day of the disability.