Surgical Associates of Columbus, P.C.

Office Policies

Most of our patients are referred by their primary care physicians.  We make every effort to coordinate your surgical care with your medical doctor.  We will also make appointments for patients who call directly; however, be aware that many health plans require pre-certification for evaluation by specialist such as surgeons.  Obtaining this pre-certification is the responsibility of the patient and in most cases requires the approval of your primary care physician.

Patients are seen in the office by appointment only.  If you are unable to keep your appointment for any reason, please notify us at least a day in advance so that we can adjust our schedule and possibly use that time for another patient.

After your appointment is scheduled, our patient representative will contact you for insurance and pre-certification information so that we can verify your coverage, copayment requirements and deductible amounts before your appointment and minimize waiting time when you arrive.

There is no smoking anywhere within our office building.

If your surgeon recommends surgery for you, they will discuss with you the reason for the surgical procedure as well as the risks and benefits.  An informed consent for surgical treatment will be prepared and must be signed by the patient or their guardian.

If you have a medical question or problem you can call our office and your call will be directed to one of our medical assistants.  They will either resolve your question or refer the call to one of our surgeons who will contact you.  

Prescription refills for medications prescribed by one of our surgeons are handled during office hours only.  Please have your pharmacy telephone number and prescription information available when you call.  Note that some types of pain medications cannot be refilled over the phone and may require that a written prescription be picked up at our office. 

Calls after regular office hours will be taken by our answering service.  They can page the surgeon on call who will return your call.  If we have not responded in a reasonable amount of time, please check with the answering service to make sure that your page was received.  If you have a medical emergency, we recommend that you go to a hospital emergency room where immediate medical attention is available.  The ER physician can then contact us.

Our fees are based on the time and skills required for each procedure.  Payment for services is due at the time services are rendered unless payment arrangements have been approved in advance by our financial staff.  We will gladly accept your personal check, MasterCard, VISA or Discover Card.  Or if you prefer, we will help you file your insurance claim and will work with you within the parameters of your plan to help you  receive maximum benefit from your coverage and avoid extra charges. 

Surgical Associates of Columbus, PC
920 18th Street
Columbus, GA  31901
(706) 649-6600

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