Pre-Surgical Evaluation
These evaluations are typically required by insurance companies and/or physicians prior to elective surgery. Dr. Turnbull will schedule 2 appointment slots for these evaluations, 1 for the clinical interview & 1 for the actual test. During the interview, we will discuss specific issues regarding your elective surgery in order to identify and/or rule out any potential psychological risks for your recovery and successful outcome of the procedure. Because psychological interviews often involve discussing unpleasant aspects of your life, you may experience uncomfortable feelings like sadness, guilt, anger, frustration, loneliness, and helplessness. You may also find the outcome of this interview may be better relationships, solutions to specific problems, and significant reductions in feelings of distress. But there are no guarantees of what you will experience.
Following your interview, Dr. Turnbull will administer psychological tests to provide further information regarding your readiness for elective surgery, as well as potential risks to surgical outcome and recovery. Dr. Turnbull will then incorporate the testing results into a comprehensive report that (with your permission) Dr. Turnbull will then send to your surgeon. Dr. Turnbull's office typically sends the surgeon’s report within 1 business day of your interview, if your bill is paid in cash or with credit. However, the results will be held until your check clears the bank to send the report if you elect to pay with a check.
Unless you elect to enter into psychotherapy with Dr. Turnbull, this will generally be our only meeting. If you have questions about Dr. Turnbull's procedures, we should discuss them whenever they arise. If your doubts persist, Dr. Turnbull will be happy to help you set up a meeting with another mental health professional for a second opinion.
