As the operation date approaches, you can make an important contribution to the success of the procedure with the right preparation. Detailed discussions with the doctors in charge are the be-all and end-all. Prim. Dr. Josef Macher, President of the Austrian Association of Private Hospitals.
1. well informed: The medical consultation as a basis
Patients at Austrian private clinics have the opportunity to receive detailed medical information and a risk assessment for the upcoming operation in consultation with the respective elective doctors. "Before operations, many patients are understandably uncertain. No matter how big or small the operation is, at the private clinics we always act according to the motto 'good information without causing unnecessary anxiety'. After all, studies have shown that recovery is better when patients feel optimally informed," emphasizes association president Prim. Dr. Macher. As experts in the relevant specialist field, the elective physicians act as a central coordination point and contact person for their patients during the further course of treatment.
2. well checked: Preliminary examinations and appointments
For planned operations, depending on the type and severity of the operation, important tests such as lung function, ECG, blood count, cardiac ultrasound and other examinations usually need to be carried out sufficiently in advance of the operation. Depending on the results, follow-up measures are discussed with the doctor and a date for the operation is set. Appointments are made flexibly and depend on the medical indication and the personal availability of the patient and the doctor of choice. All important findings are thoroughly checked before an operation. Pre-existing conditions and individual needs are also taken into account.
3. good advice: The anesthesia consultation
The informative discussion with the anaesthetist is a mandatory component before every surgical procedure: "The anaesthetists in private hospitals take a lot of time to discuss the procedure, the benefits and potential risks of the respective anaesthetic procedure with the patient," explains Macher. If the patient takes medication regularly, it is determined how to proceed in this regard. Depending on the extent and duration of the operation, a choice is made between balanced general anesthesia, regional anesthesia and local anesthesia or a mixture of the two in consultation with the patient. If the findings do not indicate anything against the procedure, the operation is approved.
4. Well cared for: Before the operation
"There are just a few rules that patients need to follow before an operation," says Macher. "If you fall ill within the last two weeks before the operation, you must inform the doctor. Furthermore, the guidelines for the last intake of food and fluids - which vary depending on the procedure - must be strictly adhered to."
The private clinics also focus on building trust immediately before the operation: "When arriving in the operating area, all staff involved in the procedure introduce themselves personally. This creates appreciation and trust and has a demonstrably positive effect on the healing process," emphasizes Macher.
5. well planned: Discharge from the clinic
"Questions relating to transportation and collection are best clarified in advance. This avoids nasty surprises in the form of additional costs and health risks, and patients no longer have to worry about them during the course of treatment," recommends Macher. In the event of discharge on the day of the operation itself, patients should not be left unattended and should not make their way home alone. "In the event of any abnormalities, questions or uncertainties, immediate contact with the clinic or the attending elective doctors is also possible at any time after discharge," says Macher. In principle, short-term or longer-term care may be necessary after an operation. The hospital will issue a discharge letter with all relevant information for the nursing staff to ensure the right care is provided.
About the association
The Association of Austrian Private Hospitals has represented the interests of legal entities of private hospitals since 1953 and has its own collective bargaining capacity. It represents one of the main pillars of the Austrian healthcare system.
Further information can be found at www.privatkrankenanstalten.at
Queries
Doris Lenhardt
Himmelhoch Text, PR & Event
0650/400 27 81
