Patient Resources
Anesthesia Overview:
What You Need to Know.
At Cowford Medical, we understand that preparing for surgery can be a stressful time, and knowing about anesthesia is an important part of the process. Our goal is to make you feel informed and confident in the care you'll receive. Below, we provide details on the different types of anesthesia we offer and what to expect before and after your procedure.
Types of Anesthesia
1. General Anesthesia
What it is:
General anesthesia puts you into a controlled, temporary state of unconsciousness. It’s used for major surgeries where complete unconsciousness and pain relief are needed.
What to expect:
You won’t feel or remember anything during the procedure. Afterward, you may feel groggy or slightly nauseous as you wake up, but this is normal. Our team will monitor you closely as you recover.
2. Regional Anesthesia
What it is:
This type blocks pain in a specific body area, such as an arm, leg, or lower body, while you remain awake but comfortable.
What to expect:
You may feel numbness in the area for several hours post-procedure. Sensation and movement will return once the anesthesia wears off.
3. Local Anesthesia
What it is:
Used for minor procedures, local anesthesia numbs a small area of the body, keeping you fully awake.
What to expect:
You may feel slight pressure at the site, but otherwise, there will be no pain. The numbness typically fades within a few hours.
4. Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC)
What it is:
MAC provides light sedation for less invasive procedures, allowing you to relax and be semi-awake yet comfortable.
What to expect:
You’ll feel drowsy and may respond to instructions. Depending on the level of sedation, some patients don’t remember much of the procedure.
Preparing for Surgery
To ensure a smooth experience, please follow these preparation tips:
Fasting:
- Follow any fasting instructions provided to avoid food and drink before surgery, as this helps prevent complications during anesthesia.
Medications:
- Discuss any current medications or supplements with your doctor, as some may need to be adjusted before surgery.
Quit Smoking:
- If possible, try to stop smoking in advance, as smoking can increase anesthesia-related risks.
Comfortable Clothing:
- Wear loose-fitting clothing for ease during recovery, as you may feel groggy afterward.
Transportation:
- Arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours post-surgery, as driving is not permitted after anesthesia.
Billing and Payment Information
We aim to make your anesthesia billing process as straightforward as possible.
How Anesthesia Billing Works
After your surgery, we will bill your insurance company for the anesthesia services. Once the insurance processes the claim, you may be responsible for any remaining balance, which can include deductibles, copays, or coinsurance.
- Initial Statement: Your insurer will send an explanation of benefits (EOB), outlining covered amounts and what you may owe.
- Your Bill: Cowford Medical will follow up with a bill for any remaining balance not covered by insurance, including deductibles or coinsurance as applicable.
How to Pay
We offer multiple convenient payment options:
By Phone:
Call our billing office to make a payment over the phone. | 904-415-4996
By Mail:
Send a check or money order using the return envelope provided with your bill.
Payment Plans:
If needed, flexible payment plans are available. Contact our billing office to discuss your options.
Have Questions?
If you have any questions about your anesthesia or your bill, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
We’re here to provide support and clarity every step of the way.
