Planning Surgery Around the Holidays? Here’s What You Need to Know
Summer’s wrapping up, and maybe you’re finally ready to fix that shoulder, knee, or hip that’s been nagging at you. Planning ahead, the holidays feel like the perfect time—less work, full insurance benefits, and a built-in excuse to slow down.
But before you book that “elective” procedure, here are a few things the hospital won’t tell you:
⚠️ Holiday Caution: Your Doctor May Be on Vacation
Hospitals reward senior staff with first pick on holiday time off. That means:
Your surgeon might be gone.
Your follow-up care might be handed off.
Your care team could be brand new (to you and each other).
🗓 Best Days to Schedule? Tuesday or Wednesday
Monday = chaotic catch-up.
Friday = risky if complications arise. Your doctor may be off all weekend.
📣 Pro Tips for Safer Surgery
✅ Ask your surgeon about their time off. Yes, you’re allowed to.
✅ Bring a Care Partner. Someone who knows what questions to ask, and when to speak up.
✅ Confirm who will be caring for you post-op. Especially over the weekend or holiday break.
Don’t Have a Trusted Care Partner? I Can Help.
From surgery prep and second opinions to attending the procedure with you—I’m here to be your extra set of eyes, ears, and voice when you need it most.
Because good timing and great care should go hand in hand.