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At UM Upper Chesapeake Health, we are dedicated to providing high quality surgical care in a healing and compassionate environment. The following information can help you prepare for your upcoming surgery or procedure.

Pre-Surgery Information

If your surgery is scheduled for 7:30 am, please arrive at the hospital by 6:00 am. All other patients should arrive to two hours prior to their scheduled surgery time.

Our Patient Access team members work behind the scenes to make your surgery day go as smoothly as possible for you! To ensure you're as prepared as possible, you'll need to pre-register for your surgery and supply us with your insurance information prior to your procedure. Having that information completed will enable us to obtain any pre-authorization your insurance company may require. Our Patient Access team will contact you or you may call us at 443-643-3646 to arrange this at your convenience. If your insurance policy requires a patient copayment, we will discuss this with during the pre-registration. Please make sure you have your current insurance policy or member ID number and group number ready.

Pre-Surgical Testing

A medical history and physical are required for your procedure. Please make an appointment with your primary care physician to have these completed. If you do not have a primary care physician, a pre-surgical appointment for people 15 years and older may be scheduled at UM Upper Chesapeake Medical Center Bel Air by calling ScheduleFirst at 443-843-7000. Pre-surgical testing must be completed no earlier than 30 days before and no less than 7 days from the date of your procedure. Depending on your medical history and the type of surgery you are having, additional tests may be necessary.

Your Surgical Experience

Keeping you as comfortable as possible is a priority for the patient care team. There are several ways to manage during your pain during your surgical procedure. The anesthesiologist and your surgeons will decide what type of anesthesia will be best for you.

Bring all of your medications with you in their original containers (including any herbal remedies you take). Please ask the physician if you should take your routine medicines (insulin, blood pressure pills or heart medicine) on the day of your surgery. Be sure to let your physician know if you develop any signs of illness such as fever, sore throat, infection, difficulty breathing or chest pain before your surgery. If for any reason you must cancel your surgery, notify your surgeon's office immediately.

Day of Surgery Instructions

  • Wear clothing that is loose-fitting and comfortable; slip on shoes are a great idea. Please leave all jewelry and other valuables at home. Do not wear makeup or contact lenses.
  • Do not eat or drink anything after midnight and do not smoke.
  • If you have an Advance Directive, please bring it with you.
  • Please be prompt and arrive at the scheduled time you've been given.
  • When you arrive, a physical assessment will be done by a nurse who will verify your medical history, explain your procedure and answer any questions you may have.
  • The site of your surgery will be marked on your skin and the incision site cleansed.
  • When you leave for the operating room, your family will be directed to the surgical waiting area. They will be given a card with a number on it which allows them to track your surgery using the electronic board in the waiting room.
  • You must have a responsible person with you on the day of your surgery to drive you home.

Going Home and Caring For Yourself

  • Your physician will give you written instructions; be sure that you understand and follow them.
  • A nurse will review these instructions with you before you leave and will answer any questions or concerns you may have.
  • Have all prescriptions filled promptly and take them according to directions
  • You may be drowsy for up to 24 hours. Plan to restrict your activities and rest quietly at home.
  • Do not make any important decisions or sign any documents for at least 24 hours after surgery.
  • DO NOT: go up/down stairs alone, smoke or drive.
  • The day after surgery a nurse will contact you by phone to see how you are doing and answer any questions you may have.

Surgery may be a part of life at some point for many people. Being prepared, knowing what to expect and having a caring, highly-skilled surgical team can help put your mind at ease. UM Upper Chesapeake Health is dedicated to making your experience as smooth as possible and providing you the care you need in a compassionate and healing environment.

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