If you’ve been scheduled for surgery, one of the most important steps before the procedure is medical clearance for surgery. Whether you’re preparing for outpatient orthopedic surgery, a dental procedure under anesthesia, or elective care like cosmetic surgery, your care team will likely require a pre-operative evaluation.
Medical clearance ensures your body is healthy enough to safely undergo anesthesia and surgery. It’s often time-sensitive surgeons need results promptly to avoid delays or cancellations. That’s why many patients turn to +MEDRITE Urgent Care for same-day evaluations and compassionate, efficient service.
Our experienced providers offer pre-op clearance exams in convenient walk-in settings, helping you avoid the stress of last-minute scheduling conflicts or gaps in care. We’re here to make this process smooth and reassuring so you can focus on your recovery.
What Is Medical Clearance for Surgery?
Medical clearance for surgery is a formal health assessment provided by a licensed medical provider to ensure you’re fit for a surgical procedure. It’s required to reduce risk during and after surgery especially if you have chronic conditions, take regular medications, or are over a certain age.
Your surgeon or surgical facility will request pre op clearance based on your health history and the type of surgery being performed. This clearance is guided by standard surgical clearance guidelines and may vary by hospital or specialty. It typically includes a full medical review, basic tests, and, in some cases, specialist referrals.
Whether you’re weeks out or just days away from your procedure, getting this step done early helps avoid delays and gives your surgical team all the information they need to care for you safely.
What Happens During a Pre-operative Evaluation (Pre-op Exam)?
At +MEDRITE, your pre-operative exam includes everything necessary to support a safe and successful procedure. During this visit, which follows our comprehensive Pre-operative Exam process, your provider will:
- Review Your Medical History
We’ll go over any past surgeries, chronic illnesses, allergies, and current medications. - Conduct a Physical Exam
Your provider will check vital signs, listen to your heart and lungs, and assess your overall health. - Order Necessary Laboratory Tests
These may include bloodwork, urinalysis, or other labs tailored to your condition and procedure. - Arrange Diagnostic Imaging Studies
Depending on your needs, you may be referred for an EKG or chest X-ray to rule out complications. - Coordinate with Specialists
If needed, we’ll help you connect with cardiologists, pulmonologists, or other experts for surgical clearance.
Our goal is to provide timely, high-quality evaluations without delay ensuring you’re cleared and confident for your upcoming procedure.
Evaluating Surgical Risk: Cardiac and Respiratory Assessments
Before giving medical clearance for surgery, providers assess your overall health, especially your heart and lungs. These cardiovascular assessments and respiratory assessments are essential for identifying any risks that could complicate anesthesia or recovery.
One of the tools your provider may use is the Revised Cardiac Risk Index (RCRI), which evaluates your risk of heart-related complications based on factors like age, existing chronic conditions, and previous cardiac history. If you have asthma, COPD, or a smoking history, your pulmonary function will be considered as well to ensure safe oxygen levels during and after surgery.
By screening for these risks early, your medical team can adjust the surgical plan or recommend additional support such as consulting a cardiologist before the procedure. At +MEDRITE, our team is trained to evaluate these risks thoroughly while keeping your experience smooth and stress-free.
What Is a Pre-Op Physical Exam Like?
You might be wondering, “What is a pre-op physical exam like?” The process is straightforward and designed to make sure you’re fully prepared for surgery both physically and logistically.
During your visit, your provider will start with a physical examination that includes vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen levels), a review of your medical history, and questions about medications or previous procedures. You’ll be asked to bring any test results ordered by your surgeon, as well as insurance information and a list of current medications.
The goal of the pre-op physical is to clear you for surgery safely and efficiently without last-minute surprises.
How Long Is Medical Clearance Valid?
If you’ve already completed your pre-operative evaluation, you may wonder: How long is medical clearance good for surgery? In most cases, clearance is valid for 30 days, although this may vary depending on the surgical facility and your overall health.
Some situations such as newly diagnosed chronic conditions, medication changes, or unexpected health developments may require follow-up appointments or repeat testing. That’s why it’s a good idea to schedule your clearance close enough to your surgery date to meet timing requirements, but early enough to allow for any necessary additional care.
At +MEDRITE, our team works closely with you to ensure your documentation stays current and your procedure remains on track.
Where to Get Medical Clearance Fast
If you’ve been told you need medical clearance for surgery, your first thought might be to call your primary care provider or a hospital clinic. Unfortunately, scheduling delays and long waitlists can be common especially for time-sensitive procedures. So, where can you get medical clearance for surgery without the hassle?
That’s where urgent care comes in. If you’re asking, “Can I get medical clearance from urgent care?” the answer is yes at least when you choose the right center. +MEDRITE offers prompt, comprehensive evaluations, including pre-operative exams, diagnostic tests, and documentation all under one roof.
If you’re unsure how to get medical clearance for surgery, simply walk into any of our locations or pre-register to save time. Our goal is to make clearance convenient and accessible, whether you’re on a tight timeline or managing care independently.
Why +MEDRITE Is Ideal for Pre-op Exams and Clearance
When your surgery is scheduled, time matters. +MEDRITE provides fast, professional pre-op exams and pre-op medical clearance services without the need to book weeks in advance. Our clinicians are trained to evaluate surgical readiness with care and accuracy, ensuring you’re cleared safely and confidently.
With no appointment necessary, walk-in service, and locations across New York, New Jersey, and Florida, we’re here when you need us most. Whether you’re managing pre-surgical anxiety or navigating complex patient safety requirements, +MEDRITE helps you take the next step with ease.
Pre-Register now for faster check-in at your nearest +MEDRITE location.