Pre-Admission Testing
Preparation, Assessment and Testing (Updated February 2026)
St. Joseph’s Health is committed to making your surgical experience as smooth and convenient as possible.
As part of this commitment, our Pre-Admission Testing (PAT) process has been updated to reduce unnecessary in-person visits and better prepare you for surgery.
Most patients will now complete their pre-admission assessment over the phone. During this call, a PAT nurse will review your health history, medications, and provide important pre-operative instructions to help you feel ready and informed.
If testing is required, you may still visit St. Joseph’s Health for specific services such as lab work or an EKG.
What to Expect
Before Your Surgery
- A PAT nurse will contact you by phone to complete your pre-operative assessment
- You will review your medical history, medications, and receive instructions for your procedure
- If additional testing is needed, it will be scheduled separately
On-Site Testing (if required)
Some patients may still need to come in for:
Some patients may still need to come in for:
- Blood work (phlebotomy)
- EKG (heart rhythm testing)
- Other tests as ordered by your physician (such as X-rays or specialty testing)
Important Information
- You do not need to fast unless your doctor tells you to
- Have a list of your medications available during your phone assessment
- Follow all instructions provided by your care team and physician
- Additional testing appointments may extend your visit time if scheduled
Pre-Operative Education
Surgery can feel overwhelming, but preparation can make a big difference.
We offer pre-operative education to help you:
- Understand what to expect before and after surgery
- Learn how to support your recovery
- Feel more confident and prepared
Ask your care team about available resources and classes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will I still have an in-person PAT visit?
A: Most assessments are now completed over the phone. You will only come in if testing (like labs or EKG) is required.
A: Most assessments are now completed over the phone. You will only come in if testing (like labs or EKG) is required.
Q: Who completes my physical exam (H&P)?
A: Your Surgeon, or another provider in your Care team, will complete your history and physical within 30 days of your procedure.
A: Your Surgeon, or another provider in your Care team, will complete your history and physical within 30 days of your procedure.
Q: How will I know what testing I need?
A: Your physician’s office will coordinate any required testing and clearances before surgery.
A: Your physician’s office will coordinate any required testing and clearances before surgery.
Q: What should I have ready for my phone assessment?
A: Please have a list of your medications, your medical history, and any questions you’d like to ask.
A: Please have a list of your medications, your medical history, and any questions you’d like to ask.
Q: Do I need to fast before testing?
A: No, unless your doctor specifically instructs you to.
A: No, unless your doctor specifically instructs you to.
Q: How long will testing take if I come in?
A: Most visits take about 90–120 minutes, depending on the tests ordered.
A: Most visits take about 90–120 minutes, depending on the tests ordered.
Privacy and Confidentiality
Your privacy is important to us. St. Joseph’s Health follows all federal and New York State regulations to ensure your personal health information is kept confidential, secure, and protected at all times.