Staff Training
Surgery Scheduling Checklist
Checklist for scheduling cataract surgery:
  1. Confirm the patient's medical and ophthalmic history, including any medications they are taking and any previous surgeries they have had (RK, LASIK (myopic or hyperopic). and any ophthalmic conditions they are being treated for (glaucoma)
  2. Run all necessary formulas for picking the intraocular lens.  Note any unusual findings on tests and run additional formulas for previous refractive surgery. https://iolcalc.ascrs.org/
  3. Verify the patient's insurance coverage and obtain any necessary pre-authorization for the surgery.
  4. Collect co-pay, deductible, and any out-of-pocket fees for non-covered services (premium lens, LRI, imaging, non-covered tests)
  5. Schedule an appointment for pre-operative testing if not done at a previous visit.  Must include IOL Master, A Scan if unobtainable,  K''s, (OCT macula and corneal topography for premium lenses), B Scan for mature cataract or retina clearance if unavailable.   Clearance by primary care with a physical exam, blood work, and EKG if general anesthesia.
  6. Coordinate with the surgeon's family, and patient to schedule the date and time of the surgery.
  7. Provide the patient with instructions for preparing for the surgery, such as fasting requirements, medication restrictions, and transportation arrangements.   Arrange and confirm transportation if necessary.
  8. Provide pre-op drop instruction sheet and send prescriptions to the pharmacy or sell at the office.
  9. Arrange for any necessary accommodations for the patient, such as wheelchair access or an interpreter.
  10. Ensure that you have signed consent from the patient or legal guardian.
  11. Confirm that all necessary equipment and supplies are available for the surgery, including the appropriate intraocular lens for the patient.  Trypan blue, Malyguan ring, MiLoop, Epishugarcaine, Iris hooks, Capsule hooks, etc.
  12. Communicate with the patient's primary care physician and any other relevant healthcare providers to ensure continuity of care.
  13. Provide the patient with post-operative instructions, including any medication instructions and follow-up appointment scheduling.
It's important to note that this checklist is not exhaustive and may need to be modified based on the specific needs of the patient and the surgical team. Additionally, it is essential to follow any protocols or guidelines provided by the hospital or surgical center where the procedure will take place.