What does "Elective Surgeries" mean?
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Elective surgeries are operations that a patient can schedule in advance. Unlike emergency surgeries, which are necessary to save a person's life or health, elective surgeries are not urgent. People often choose to have these procedures to improve their quality of life or to treat problems that are not life-threatening.
Types of Elective Surgeries
Common types of elective surgeries include:
- Cataract Surgery: This involves removing cloudy lenses from the eyes to improve vision.
- Joint Replacement: This surgery replaces damaged joints, like hips or knees, to relieve pain and improve movement.
- Spinal Fusion: This procedure helps to stabilize the spine in cases of injury or pain.
Importance of Access
Access to elective surgeries can significantly affect a person's health. When more people are eligible for health coverage, such as Medicare, they can get these procedures sooner, which can lead to better health outcomes.
Factors Affecting Elective Surgeries
Several factors can influence whether someone undergoes an elective surgery:
- Age: Older individuals tend to be more eligible for health coverage that pays for surgeries.
- Insurance Status: Uninsured patients may have a harder time getting these procedures.
- Health Conditions: Existing health issues can also impact the decision to have surgery.
In summary, elective surgeries are planned procedures that improve health and well-being, and access to them is important for people, especially as they age.