ACS releases new resources to help prepare patients for surgery delayed by COVID-19

Editor's Note

The American College of Surgeons on June 3 released new resources to help surgeons and hospitals address patients’ concerns about having surgical procedures that were delayed by COVID-19.

The document, “Preparing to have surgery during the time of COVID-19,” includes a patient-surgeon discussion guide with suggested questions patients can ask surgeons to help them feel more prepared about returning to healthcare facilities for their procedures.

The guide also includes patient concerns, such as how the check-in process has changed, what to expect during appointments, safeguards to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and how the pandemic may change postoperative care.

There is also a companion document to help surgeons prepare answers to anticipated patient questions and enlist members of the patient’s care team and administration in the preparation process.