Protecting your health is what we do best
COVID-19 and what to expect before surgery
We’re taking extra precautions to keep you safe.
Here’s what you can expect:
One of our team members will contact you to get your procedure scheduled. During the call, they’ll ask you a few extra questions to rule out the possibility that you’ve been exposed to COVID-19. They’ll also ask if you’ve received all recommended doses of a COVID vaccine.
Based on your personal situation, we may refer you for COVID-19 testing at one of our Geisinger locations about 72 hours before your surgery or procedure.
If you’re referred for testing, between your COVID-19 test and your procedure, there are two important things to do:
- Avoid any contact with people other than your immediate household members.
- Tell your provider if you come into contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.
Telemedicine video visits
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Get virtual care nowCOVID-19 updates: Visit Geisinger's Coronavirus Resource Center for the latest information and helpful resources.
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The day before your procedure
The day before your procedure, we’ll contact you by phone to ask you a few questions to rule out the possibility that you’ve been exposed to the virus.
- Have you had contact with a person who is known or suspected to have COVID-19 in the last month?
- Do you have a new-onset cough?
- Do you have new-onset shortness of breath?
- Are you experiencing flu-like illness?
- Do you have a recent loss of taste or smell?
- Have you been tested for COVID-19? If so, have you received your test results?
If you answer yes to any of these questions, your procedure may be delayed.
If you are a resident of a nursing home or correctional facility, you can expect to be asked the following additional questions:
- Are there positive COVID-19 cases at your facility?
- Are COVID-positive patients being separated from everyone else?
- Are all people masked?
The day of your procedure
When you arrive at the hospital or surgical center, we’ll greet you at the entrance and ask you the same screening questions to rule out the possibility that you’ve been exposed to COVID-19.
If you answer yes to any of these questions or have a fever, your procedure may be delayed.
Frequently asked questions
Is the presurgical COVID-19 testing free, or will my insurance be billed?
We will bill your insurance for your presurgical testing. And your insurance should cover this testing.
Will I have to pay a copay or deductible for COVID-19 pre-surgical testing?
There will be no cost-sharing for this test — no copays or deductibles and no charge for self-pay patients.
Why is my surgeon ordering this test?
We’re responsible for protecting our employees, patients and visitors and supporting the overall health of our community while also providing needed care.
When can I expect my results?
The results of your pre-surgery COVID-19 test will be available within 12 to 48 hours. If you have a MyGeisinger account or the MyChart app, you can get test results, messaging and education on COVID-19 right on your mobile device. Your physician will review your results before your surgery or procedure.
If my test is positive, what do I do next?
Contact your primary care provider, who will tell you how to manage COVID-19 symptoms as needed. You’ll also need to contact your surgeon’s office to reschedule your procedure.
What is your visitor policy?
For the latest updates, see our temporary visitor policy.