Frequently Asked Questions
What types of services do you pre-register for?
All scheduled procedures and maternity services.
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How will you know if the hospital has received the pre-registration faxed form or if pre-registration has been completed online?
If the Patient Access Department has not received an online pre registration or faxed form prior to scheduled surgery, test or procedure, you will be called to pre-register by telephone.
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Should I bring a copy of my advance directive to the hospital?
Yes. If you have executed an advance directive, a current copy needs to be provided to the hospital. Because situations and wishes change, the hospital cannot assume that advance directives are valid from one admission to another. If you have questions or concerns regarding advance directives, the hospital encourages you to talk with your physician or loved ones.
For additional information about an advance directive, contact the Center for Spiritual Care:
South Bend (574) 237-7249
Plymouth (574) 936-2352
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When will the Medicare secondary payor questionnaire (MSP) be completed?
A patient access representative will complete the Medicare secondary payor questionnaire (MSP) when you arrive for your surgery, test or procedure. Federal law requires that providers of medical services to Medicare beneficiaries determine whether or not there is other insurance coverage for the beneficiary that should be billed before a claim is submitted to Medicare.
Providers, such as hospitals, must be able to document that they have screened for other insurance coverage by asking the beneficiary questions which will identify if other insurance is available. The Medicare questionnaire contains all of the necessary questions that need to be asked of the beneficiary to determine if there is other insurance that is primary to Medicare. Accurately completing the Medicare secondary payor questionnaire ensures expedient payments to providers, as well as compliance with Medicare rules and regulations.
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Will I still be required to stop at registration when I come to the hospital?
Yes. You should check in at the front lobby of any of our facilities.
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Do I need to bring my insurance card?
Yes. The hospital needs a copy of your insurance card in order to verify coverage and to determine if pre certification is required for an inpatient admission.
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Items you should not bring
Please do not bring jewelry, credit cards or large amounts of cash to the hospital. If this occurs, you will be requested to send items home as soon as possible. Until such arrangement is made, valuables may be stored in the hospital safe. SJRMC, Inc. does not assume responsibility for lost items.
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What if I need a wheelchair?
Wheelchairs are located at the information desk and/or registration check-in.
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What is pre-certification and how does it happen?
Pre-certification is obtaining approval from the insurer for patient services prior to treatment. Pre-certification is a critical element for payment of services. For surgical cases, the physician’s office is responsible for obtaining pre-certification. The doctor has access to the patient’s medical history and indication for the procedure. It is advisable for you to do a follow-up with your doctor to ensure that this process has occurred. Failure to have a surgery, test or procedure pre-certified could result in reduced or denied benefits by the insurance carrier.
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Pre-admission testing
You will be informed or instructed if any pre admission or surgical testing is necessary when your scheduling occurs. Please direct all medical questions to your physician or surgeon.
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Should I eat or drink prior to surgery, tests or procedures?
Please consult with your physician or surgeon regarding medical questions. If the orders are not followed, this could result in surgery, tests or procedures being delayed or canceled.
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Transportation
The hospital recommends that you check with your physician or surgeon to determine if you will need someone to transport you home after your surgery, test or procedure.
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Will I be given instructions to take home?
You will be discharged according to your physician/surgeon’s orders. Instructions will be provided as to your care, medication and post-op follow-up after hospital visit and/or surgery.
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