Shoulder Replacement: appointment and planning tools

Questions for my surgeon

Untick any you don't need, add your own, then print a sheet with space to write the answers.

Is my rotator cuff healthy enough for an anatomic replacement? Why ask this
Which type do you recommend for me, and why? Why ask this
What does my socket bone look like? Do you use 3D planning? Why ask this
How many shoulder replacements do you do each year? Why ask this
What limits will I have long term? Why ask this
How long will I be in a sling, and when can I drive? Why ask this
Which implant will you use, and how long has it been in use? Why ask this
If I broke my shoulder, what would happen if I didn't have surgery? Why ask this

Questions for my surgeon: shoulder replacementDate: ____________ Surgeon: ________________________

From informedsurgery.com. For education only, not medical advice.

Use the button to print, or choose "Save as PDF" in your browser's print window.

Preparing for surgery

Practical arrangements to make before surgery day. Your surgical team's instructions come first.

Insurance call worksheet

Call the number on your insurance card and fill this in as you go. Ask the surgeon's office for the procedure codes first, since insurers often ask for them.

Estimates aren't guarantees. What your insurer tells you on the phone is an estimate. Final coverage depends on the claims that are actually billed, so keep the reference number and the name of the person you spoke with.

Insurance call worksheet: shoulder replacement

Insurance companyPhone number calledDate and time of callName of the person you spoke withCall reference numberAre the surgeon, hospital or surgery center, and anesthesia group in network?Is prior authorization needed? Who requests it, and is it approved?How much of my deductible is left?What is my coinsurance or copay for surgery?How much is left of my out-of-pocket maximum?How many physical therapy visits are covered, and do they need approval?Is equipment like a walker, sling, brace or cold therapy unit covered?Estimated total I may owe (and what it includes)Other notes

Phone estimates do not guarantee final coverage. From informedsurgery.com.

Recovery planning worksheet

A place to plan the practical side of recovery. It doesn't set activity limits or return dates. Ask your surgeon about those.

Recovery plan: shoulder replacement

Work or school: who to tell, paperwork for time off, and plans to discuss with your surgeonWho is helping, and when (first days, first weeks)Rides to follow-up visits and physical therapyMeals and groceriesHelp at home: children, pets, caregiving, cleaning, laundryImportant numbers: surgeon's office, after-hours line, therapist, pharmacyOther things to arrange

Follow your surgeon's and therapist's instructions on activity. From informedsurgery.com.

Appointment and planning tools

Questions for my surgeon

Preparing for surgery

Insurance call worksheet

Recovery planning worksheet