FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS


What is an Ambulatory Surgery Center?

Will I get the same care as I would in a hospital?

What should I do the day before surgery?

Will I be allowed to eat or drink the night before or morning of my  surgery?

What time is my surgery?

What should I bring and/or wear the day of my surgery?

What should I do if something comes up and I need to cancel my surgery?

How long will I stay?

Will my family be able to visit me immediately after my procedure?

Will I be able to drive after my surgery?

What if I have complications?

How do I know if my insurance company will cover my surgery?

                                                    


 
What is an Ambulatory Surgery Center?
  • Ambulatory Surgery Centers are facilities where non emergent surgeries that do not require a hospital admission are performed. They provide a cost-effective and convenient environment that is less stressful than the large hospital environment.            
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Will I get the same care as I would in a hospital?
  • Yes. State and Federal regulations require that Ambulatory Surgery Centers be held to the same rigorous standards of safety and quality as hospitals. Our Center is proud to have been awarded the prestigious National Accreditation Association from Ambulatory Health Care, recognition of our center's adherence to the same rigorous standards as hospitals. Because our center is smaller and more intimate, you will also find the privacy and personalized care that you need for a more pampered recovery. We have designed the center for your comfort.
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What should I do the day before surgery?
  • Fill any prescriptions you have before your surgery so they will be ready for you when you return home.  If you are having an orthopedic procedure which will involve the use of crutches, please speak with your doctor about obtaining your crutches prior to surgery.               
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Will I be allowed to eat or drink the night before or morning of my surgery?
  • If you are having surgery the next day, you should not have any solid food after midnight.  You may drink clear fluids, such as water, apple juice, clear tea or coffee (without milk or cream) up to 4 hours before surgery.  You may brush your teech and rinse your mouth but try not to swallow.
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What time is my surgery?
  • Call our office at (845) 473-6144 before 3:00PM the day before your surgery for your surgery time and arrival time (Note: we are closed Saturday and Sunday). It is important that you report to the surgery center at the time given by our office.                                 
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What should I bring and/or wear the day of my surgery?
  • Please bring all insurance information with you. Also, wear comfortable clothes that are easy to put on and off. For example, shirts that button up the front or loose fitting slacks. Please leave all valuables at home. Do not wear makeup or dark fingernail/toenail polish. If your child is having surgery, please bring a favorite toy or blanket. Try to plan ahead, depending on the type of surgery you are having.  
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What should I do if something comes up and I need to cancel my surgery?
  • Please call Dutchess Ambulatory Surgical Center as well as your physician's office as soon as possible. The phone number here is (845) 473-6144. If you call after hours of operation, an answering message will instruct you in leaving a message.   
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How long will I stay?
  • Most patients are dicharged within two hours of their procedure. However, everyone is different and some stay longer or go home sooner depending on how they feel. Before you go home, you and your family will work with our nursing staff to make sure that you are as comfortable as possible, that your questions are answered, and that you know what to do should you have any questions.    
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Will my family be able to visit me immediately after my procedure?
  • Yes, but due to the need for privacy we suggest that a limit of one or two family members visit the patient. We have a large and inviting reception where your family or friends will be comfortable. The nursing staff will be happy to give family members waiting outside the recovery area, periodic updates on the patients condition.      
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Will I be able to drive after my surgery?
  • Yes and No. Yes, if you have local anesthesia you will be permitted to drive. No, if you have surgery that requires sedation for their surgical procedure you must be accompanied home by a responsible adult. This is a safety procedure that is strictly adhered to for you benefit.        
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What if I have complications?
  •  This would be extremely unusual because of the type of procedure and the health of our patients, however our staff has been specially trained. They have both education and experience in providing care to patients in this setting, under usual and unusual circumstances. If an overnight stay or higher level of care is needed, the staff is able to quickly respond and arrange a transfer to an acute care hospital.      

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How do I know if my insurance company will cover my surgery?
  • The staff at Dutchess Ambulatory Surgical Center as well as your physician's office will be able to help you answer these specific questions regarding coverage. We participate with most major insurance companies.          


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23 Davis Avenue, Poughkeepsie, NY  12603  (845) 473-6144