PACE Clinic
The Preoperative Assessment Clearance Education (PACE) Clinic was developed by The Orthopedic Hospital to insure patients are physically able to undergo surgery and also educated about their procedures. Thorough evaluation and detailed education help reduce complications and anxiety, leading to a more positive patient experience.
The PACE Clinic assesses patients who will undergo:
For most patients, this assessment is all that is needed prior to surgery. However, additional testing, medication adjustments or an appointment with a specialist may be required if an underlying condition is identified. In these cases, the PACE Clinic works with the patient's primary care physician, orthopedic surgeon and other specialists to address the concern. Once the patient is deemed ready for surgery, a re-evaluation at the PACE Clinic may be necessary.
What to Expect During the PACE Clinic Appointment
Pre-op evaluation by PACE Clinic professionals includes:
- A physical exam
- A complete review of unique medical issues and potential medical and surgical risks, as well as all test and consult results
- A visit with the pre-op physician for further evaluation of identified medical or surgical risks, if needed
- Recommendations for additional tests, such as lab work, X-rays or an EKG, if needed
- Scheduling of a physical therapy evaluation to determine the patient's physical capabilities and develop a recovery plan
- Creation of an individualized care plan to reduce or eliminate risks and expedite recovery, based on each patient's unique medical and home care needs
- Discussion about which medications should or should not be taken before and immediately after surgery
For patients with high-risk medical conditions, appointments with other specialists may need to be scheduled prior to surgery. If a referral to a specialist is needed, the PACE Clinic will coordinate an additional appointment with the patient's primary care physician or nurse practitioner.
If additional medications are needed, these can be prescribed by the center's pre-op physician or nurse practitioner in coordination with the patient's primary care physician.
What to Bring to the PACE Clinic Appointment
It is important to bring the following information to the PACE Clinic appointment, which will take place approximately three weeks prior to surgery.
- A list of any other hospitals at which evaluations for heart or lung disease or stroke were performed.
- The name and phone number of the primary care physician, as well as any other specialists.
- An updated list of all medications, including the medication name, dose in milligrams and when the medication is taken.
Questions about the PACE Clinic?
If you have any questions or would like more information about the PACE Clinic, please call (260) 435-2999.