During the COVID-19 pandemic, strains on the healthcare system led states topostpone many elective surgeries.
But what factors make a surgery elective or nonelective?
This means that the procedure can be scheduled in advance or postponed without compromising the patients health and safety.
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How Does It Work?
What Is Elective Surgery?
All surgeries are performed by making an incision in the body.
Each health plan is different, but an elective surgical procedure would likely fall undercost-sharingarrangements.
This means you may have to end up paying adeductibleand/orcoinsurance.
This is a nonelective (or emergency) surgery.
Nonelective surgery is designed to deal quickly with urgent medical issues that can be life-threatening or require emergency care.
What Is a Nonelective Surgery?
Nonelective surgery is often lifesaving surgery to treat an urgent medical need.
It’s typically performed without any advance planning.
Nonelective Surgery Delivery
The process of having nonelective surgery moves quickly.
The person is then prepared for the surgery.
Data shows that emergency surgery typically has higher costs than elective surgery.
Which Treatment Is Best for You?
Both elective and nonelective surgeries are important, but they serve different purposes.
Whether elective or nonelective surgery is best for your individual situation will depend on the reason behind the procedure.
A healthcare provider will be able to determine which is most appropriate.
Can Elective and Nonelective Surgery Be Used Together?
Sometimes, it can takeseveral surgeriesto correct an issue.
For example, inlife-threatening situations, an individual may need to have several nonelective surgeries at first.
Later, elective surgery may be recommended to further correct the problem.
Note that each time you undergo surgery, there is a chance for complications.
Both types of surgery are important and can be medically necessary.
If you have questions, talk to your healthcare provider.
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