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If you or someone you know needs emergency medical treatment, go to the nearest ER or call 911

When every second counts, count on us

Our expanded and remodeled ER is clean, efficient and convenient. With a team of board certified emergency physicians and experienced ER nurses all focused on a better experience for you, it’s no wonder Cullman Regional’s ER is consistently recognized for beating state and national benchmarks for quality care.

An imaging tech in a dark room monitoring a patient's brain scan through a window and on a monitor.

New Technology for Brain Injury

Cullman Regional ER uses a pioneering technology to assess head injury patients without exposure to radiation. BrainScope can detect the smallest amount of blood with 99 percent sensitivity and helps physicians quickly determine which patients need further testing and treatment for concussion.

“My experience at Cullman Regional ER was exceptional. From the moment I arrived, the staff took my symptoms seriously and showed genuine concern. I was given a complete evaluation for a potentially serious health concern; and after extensive tests, I was headed home in less than three hours! This was a significant contrast to spending more than 12 hours in an ER with no sense of urgency.

As someone in a leadership position, I pay close attention to professionalism and a welcoming attitude, both of which were clearly evident in the Cullman Regional ER team. My first experience was so positive that when I had a second emergency, I chose to return to Cullman Regional ER. It’s reassuring to know that such a dedicated and professional team is available to provide top-notch care.”

ROBBY CANTRELL, CULLMAN ER PATIENT

Where to Go for Care

If you need an appointment with a physician, visit CullmanRegionalMedicalGroup.com for more information.

When to Visit the Emergency Department

The ER is designed for life saving care. If you are experiencing any of the following, seek emergency medical attention or call 911

  • Broken bone
  • Chest pain
  • Drug/alcohol overdose
  • Poisoning
  • Seizure
  • Serious burns
  • Severe allergic reaction
  • Stroke
  • Sudden dizziness
  • Trouble breathing
When to Visit Urgent Care

Urgent Care is for an illness or injury that is not life-threatening but can’t wait for a scheduled appointment with your primary care provider. If you need care for any of the following, visit our Urgent Care Center:

  • Cough
  • Diarrhea
  • Fever
  • Flu
  • Minor burn
  • Minor cuts
  • Stomach pain
  • Skin rash
  • Sprains or strains
  • Vomiting
  • Wheezing

Urgent Care Center

Located on the Cullman Regional Medical Center campus, our Urgent Care Center offers convenient and prompt care for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries for those 3 months and older.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a triage nurse?

A triage nurse is responsible for assessing all patients upon arrival to the public entrance of the Emergency Services Center. He or she will use skills taught to them during their long educational training to determine the order in which patients should be seen, based on the severity of their illness/injury. It is possible that serious patients may arrive after you but are given priority over patients with less severe conditions. Conditions severe in nature may include:

  • Bleeding that is uncontrolled
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Heart conditions
  • Overdoses of medication

If your condition changes while you are waiting, please ask the triage nurse to re-evaluate your condition. We want all patients to receive the best care possible in the shortest amount of time.

If the waiting room is fairly empty, why am I waiting?

We have experienced increased numbers of patients brought in by ambulance. Many of these patients are from accidents, nursing homes and other facilities. It is not uncommon to receive two or more patients in one ambulance from an accident or to receive multiple patient transfers each shift from other facilities. The ambulance entrance is separate from the public entrance, so you may be unaware of the number of patients that have come into the hospital by ambulance.

The doctor ordered tests. What is the wait?

Lab tests vary greatly in complexity. Some tests are time-consuming and can take up to an hour to complete. Diagnostic imaging, or x-rays, usually can be obtained in a short period of time; however, the test then goes to a radiologist for interpretation, which may take time. Please be aware that we monitor ourselves constantly. Our goal is to provide care to help resolve your condition or injury and care that will have you back at home or admitted to the hospital in the shortest amount of time possible.

What should I bring to the ER?

Bring your most recent prescription bottles, insurance cards, a list of past medical history including surgeries, and other important information that would expedite your emergency care.

Why didn’t I see a doctor?

The Cullman Regional Emergency Services Center is staffed with a board-certified emergency medicine physician 24 hours a day, seven days a week, as well as a physician assistant or certified nurse practitioner from 12 noon to 12 midnight in the main emergency department and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in ExpressCare. All treatment in the Emergency Department is done in collaboration with of the emergency physician on duty.

Why did I have to wait so long?

It is our goal to bring you to the treatment area immediately after triage, if a bed is available. Wait times vary based on your presenting complaint. Patients with more emergent life- or limb-threatening conditions are seen first. Care requiring lab, x-ray or IV fluids may have an extended treatment time in the emergency department. If you have lab work, you can expect to stay at least an hour after the blood is obtained. If you require radiology studies, especially a CT scan, you can expect to stay at least two hours. Patients requiring hospital admission may wait three to four hours before getting to your hospital room.

Why did you take someone who arrived after me back for treatment before me?

Patients are seen based on presenting complaint and severity, not based on arrival time. Critically ill patients will be brought to the treatment area ahead of non-urgent patients. All patients who come in on their own accord or with a friend or family member are triaged upon arrival to ensure that those who need immediate medical attention are seen first.

Why did I receive more than one bill?

In order to provide the best patient care in the most efficient manner possible, Cullman Regional has partnered with Island Medical Management, Birmingham Radiology Group and Cunningham Pathology Group to provide the physicians, physician assistants and nurse practitioners in the ER, radiologists in Diagnostic Imaging and pathologists in the Laboratory. Patients receiving services by these providers will receive two or more bills.

  • Cullman Regional bill: Your hospital bill reflects all services you received during your visit, including your room, nursing care, housekeeping, and/or any special service charges which may include items your physician orders for you, such as X-rays or laboratory tests, supplies, drugs, etc.
  • Physician Services bill: You may receive bills from physicians you did not see in person. These are for professional services rendered by these doctors in diagnosing and interpreting test results while you were a patient. Pathologists, radiologists, cardiologists, anesthesiologists and other specialists perform these services and are required to submit separate bills. If you have questions about these bills, please call the number printed on the statement you received.

Hours

Open 24/7

Locations

Main hospital, rear entrance
1912 AL Highway 157
Cullman, AL 35058

Hartselle Health Park ER
1549 Hwy 31 S
Hartselle, AL 35640.

Contact

Telephone: 256-737-2100
Fax: 256-737-2110

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Why Cullman Regional for HBOT & Wound Care

Our team of specialized wound care providers utilize advanced evidence-based procedures to treat and heal chronic wounds. By partnering with our patients’ providers, we create a custom treatment plan to promote healing, which can occur within 12 weeks.

Our Services

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)
  • Compromised Skin Flaps and Grafts
  • Osteoradionecrosis (ORN)
  • Soft Tissue Radionecrosis
  • Idiopathic Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (ISSHL)
  • Diabetic Wounds of the Lower Extremity
  • Chronic Refractory Osteomyelitis
  • Central Retinal Artery Occlusion (CRAO)
Wound Care
  • Advanced dressings
  • Negative pressure wound therapy
  • Bioengineered skin substitutions
  • Total contact cast
  • Vascular evaluation
  • Debridement

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I a candidate for specialized wound care?

If you suffer from a chronic or non-healing wound, ask your physician about a referral to the Cullman Regional Wound Healing Center or contact us directly for an assessment. If you are a candidate for this outpatient program, the Cullman Regional Hyperbaric & Wound Care Center will immediately work with you and your doctor to deliver the following:

  • Advanced therapies, such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy
  • Proven clinical protocols
  • An individualized, comprehensive plan of care that brings you the most appropriate and effective treatments for your specific needs
  • Assessment and ongoing care by our highly skilled team of wound care specialists, including a case manager who will oversee every aspect of your treatment
  • Education for you and your family to help healing happen at home, including materials and resources related to prevention, nutrition, hygiene, and more
  • Ongoing communication and collaboration with you and your doctor so that you each remain informed about your progress

What Causes Non-Healing Wounds?

Chronic and non-healing wounds can result from a number of factors, including diabetes, poor circulation, trauma, vascular disease, and immobility (which can lead to pressure ulcers, commonly known as “bed sores”). An estimated eight million Americans suffer from chronic wounds. Wounds come from a variety of different medical conditions, and they don’t heal for many different reasons.

Will I have to change my primary care doctor or specialist?

No. In fact, the Hyperbaric & Wound Care Center prefers to work with your physician or medical specialist during the treatments. We even keep your doctor informed with frequent progress reports. While you’ll be receiving treatment for your wound locally, from our center, you’ll continue to receive all of your routine care from your primary physician.

Does insurance cover specialized wound care treatments?

Many health plans cover wound care center treatments. Call us to determine what your specific plan covers.

Is hyperbaric medicine safe?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a safe and evidence-based treatment proven to speed the healing process in certain types of wounds. In fact, many patients find it relaxing! The clear chambers are equipped with televisions and comfortable bedding, so patients are free to watch their favorite television shows or a movie, or even sleep. A typical course of treatment involves the patient spending about 90 minutes a day in the chamber five days per week over a four-to-six-week period.

Hyperbaric & Wound Care Center

Hours:
Monday – Friday,
8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Location:
1912 AL Highway 157, Cullman, AL 35058
First floor, main hospital

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Center of Excellence Orthopedics & Spine

The Center of Excellence Orthopedics & Spine gives North Alabama residents the option of exceptional care at every level. With leading physicians, updated facilities and modern technology, you can be confident that you’re receiving patient-centered, high-quality orthopedic and spine care from a team of dedicated experts.

Why Cullman Regional

Our promise to always strive for excellence has made Cullman Regional a destination for both high caliber physicians and patients seeking an advanced level of medical care.

Orthopedic Excellence

Cullman Regional’s top orthopedic specialists and surgeons utilize the latest medical technology to get you back to where you want to be. Our advanced Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery helps physicians execute personalized surgical plans with precision while reducing post-op pain and recovery.

Interventional Spine & Joint Care

The highly specialized treatment provided by our interventional pain management physician can help restore function and improve your quality of life. Patients benefit from a personalized care plan that uses minimally invasive procedures performed on an outpatient basis to relieve acute and chronic pain in spine and joints.

Our Facility

Our Physicians

When it comes to the most recent advancements and best practices in orthopedic and spine care, our highly-trained physicians continually raise the bar. Their expertise and experience make Cullman Regional’s Center of Excellence Orthopedics & Spine a premier destination for exceptional orthopedic and spine care.

Cullman Regional Medical Group

Victoria Clay, MD

Interventional Pain

Accepting New Patients

David Dueland, MD

Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine

Accepting New Patients

Steven B. Fuller, DO

Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine

Accepting New Patients

Ben Gomez, MD

Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine

Accepting New Patients

Cullman Regional Medical Group

Eric Goodrich, DO, MS

Orthopedic Surgery

Accepting New Patients

Cullman Regional Medical Group

Stephen Gould, MD

Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine

Accepting New Patients

Cullman Regional Medical Group

Connor A. Ojard, MD

Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine

Accepting New Patients

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Why Cullman Regional Sports Medicine

Sports enthusiasts and athletes can suffer from aches, injuries, or chronic pain from repetitive use. Our orthopedic and sports medicine physicians don’t just treat sports-related injuries and conditions. They aim for a recovery as precise as your performance. From advanced robotic surgery to specialized non-surgical treatments, your care is in the hands of experienced physicians who have honed their skills at top institutions.

Our Services

In addition to treatment for minor to severe sports-related injuries and conditions, our physicians provide therapy and rehabilitation management.

  • Achilles tendonitis and tears
  • Ankle instability
  • Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears
  • Bunions and hammertoes
  • Dislocations and fractures
  • Labral and rotator cuff tears
  • Ligament injuries and tears
  • Medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) tears
  • Meniscus injuries
  • Platelet-rich plasma injections
  • Shoulder instability
  • Sprains
  • Tendonitis

To make an appointment with a Sports Medicine provider, call 256-735-5505

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Hartselle Health Park ER

In a medical emergency, prompt diagnosis and best-practice ER care saves lives. Hartselle Health Park ER is a 24/7 freestanding emergency department providing the same level of emergency care as hospital-based ERs. Our facility is safe, clean, and offers 10 treatment rooms including a dedicated trauma room, ambulance bay, helipad and a full imaging center with CT, x-ray and ultrasound.

When you arrive, our focus is on a quick and accurate diagnosis so we can begin appropriate care right away. Decisions about your care are made by experienced, board certified emergency medicine physicians with advanced imaging technology and lab capabilities on-site.

Providing high quality ER care is our priority, and we’ve gotten pretty good at it. Cullman Regional ER consistently beats state and national benchmarks for quality care including for heart attack and stroke, and we’ve brought that same level of care to Hartselle.

With short wait times and an even shorter drive for south Morgan County residents, you can count on Hartselle Health Park ER.

Conditions we can treat:

  • Breathing problems
  • Congestive Heart Failure
  • Heart attack
  • Stroke
  • Acute abdominal pain
  • Severe injury
  • Seizure
  • Serious Allergic Reactions

Hartselle Health Park ER is located at 1549 US-31, Hartselle, AL 35640. If you’re experiencing an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Media

Inside Hartselle ER with Dr. Ryan McMorries

Hartselle ER Virtual Tour

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The Surgery Center of Cullman is committed to providing patients with high-quality, convenient, low-cost care and is licensed by the State of Alabama and the Accreditation Association of Ambulatory Heath Care Surgery Division (AAAHC). Our highly trained staff provides extraordinary care with a strong sense of commitment to meeting each patient’s needs.

Surgery

About the Surgery Center of Cullman

The Surgery Center of Cullman opened in December of 2006 by a group of local physicians. These physicians and partners wanted to create a high-quality, convenient and cost-efficient outpatient care option for the community. In 2017, these physicians partnered with Cullman Regional in order to continue to meet the consumer’s growing demand for this type of service now and into the future.

Pre-Register
Pay Your Bill
Directions

To expedite your check-in process, we need to receive your registration form prior to your procedure date. Click here to pre-register online. If not received, the Pre-Registration Department will be contacting you prior to your date of service.

A nurse will call you the day before your surgery to review special instructions and answer any questions you may have. If you have not received a call by 4 pm the day before your surgery or if you have additional questions, call 256-736-2811.

It is important to follow these guidelines before surgery to prevent delay or cancellations:

Food & Drink: The night before your surgery you may eat a light meal before 11:00 p.m. Do not drink or eat anything after midnight—not even coffee or water. You may brush your teeth, remembering not to swallow anything. Pain patients may have clear liquids –no dairy, cream or fats– six (6) hours prior to your procedure IF you are having sedation.

 Alcohol: Do not drink alcohol for at least 12 hours before your arrival.

Smoking/Tobacco: No smoking/tobacco after midnight the night before your surgery.

Makeup, Nail Polish, Jewelry (including body jewelry): Please remove all these items before surgery.

Clothing: Wear loose, casual, comfortable clothing to fit over dressings.

Valuables: Please leave valuables at home.

 

Notify The Surgery Center & Your Surgeon If:
  • You have an elevated temperature, cough, cold, vomiting or diarrhea between your last visit to the surgeon and the day of your surgery.
  • You suspect you may be pregnant.
  • You are taking: diet pills, aspirin, ibuprofen, blood thinners, or certain herbal medicines. You may need to stop taking these 1-2 weeks before your surgery. You can discuss this with your surgeon.

Preparing for surgery can feel overwhelming or scary if you don’t know what to expect. You may have some unanswered questions and worries that make you feel this way. Knowing what to expect will help you feel less nervous and more in control.

What You Need the Day of the Surgery:
  • Information to Bring: Insurance cards, photo ID, Medicare or Medical Assistance information, numbers and addresses.
  • Driver: You must plan to have someone drive you home. Do not plan to use taxis or other public transportation.
  • Escort: A friend, relative or dedicated caregiver MUST stay with you for 24 hours.
  • Legal Guardian: A legal guardian must be in the center AT ALL TIMES for children and dependent adults.
  • Care for Children: If you have young children at home for whom you normally care for, plan for someone else to care for them for at least the first 24 hours following your surgery.
  • Interpreter: If the patient cannot read, speak English or use sign language, an interpreter is required. If you need assistance arranging for an interpreter, please contact the Scheduling department at 256-736-2811 as soon as possible.

Check-in: When you arrive at our center we ask that you check-in at the registration desk to verify personal, escort and insurance information.

Following Admission: After checking in at our center, you will be brought to the pre-op area where the nurse will do a health interview and prepare you for surgery. You and your family or escort will stay in the room until it is time for your surgery. An anesthesiologist will discuss your anesthesia with you and answer any questions. At the appropriate time you will be escorted to the operating room. During surgery your escort will stay in a waiting area and will rejoin you in the recovery area after your surgery.

Once you are in stable condition, you will be discharged. It is normal to experience sleepiness and dizziness for 12 to 24 hours after surgery.

Post Care: You will receive verbal and written post-surgical care instructions (please follow these instructions). Your escort must be available to discuss and sign these instructions before you will be allowed to go home. If you experience anything unusual after your surgery, please call your surgeon or go to the nearest emergency room. A nurse from our center will call you the day after your surgery to see how you are feeling and to see if you are having any problems.

Transportation: DO NOT PLAN TO DRIVE yourself home or use public transportation after your procedure. A friend or relative or dedicated caregiver MUST stay with you for 24 hours.

Children

We give children the extra care they need in an unfamiliar setting.

Drink: Children may have less than 1 cup (8 oz) of clear liquids up to three hours before their arrival. This includes water, apple juice, soft drinks and Kool-Aid. NO milk or orange juice.

Food: Children must not eat anything for eight hours before their arrival. Please do not allow them to suck on candy or swallow toothpaste before surgery.

Parental Care: We require at least one parent to remain in the center during the surgery and recovery. Please do not bring other young children along. If your child’s surgery is scheduled near noon, you may want to bring a lunch for yourself while you are waiting.

Personal Comforts: Please bring your child’s favorite blanket, stuffed animal or toy for added security.

After Surgery: You will be able to be with your child as soon as he/she is awake and medically safe for transfer after recovery.

Special Needs Patients

We understand that loved ones who depend upon others for daily living require special attention. The following tips, will help make care for these adults easier:

Consent: The legal guardian needs to sign the consent for surgery and anesthesia on or before the day of surgery.

For Admission: Please bring the patient’s recent health history and medication information. Be certain to follow the food and drink rules in the Preparing for Surgery section.

Personal Attendant: As with other patients, special needs patients require a parent, legal guardian or other responsible adult to remain at the center from admission through recovery. A personal attendant will be required to stay with the patient for 24 hours after discharge.

The types of anesthesia provided range from sedation, regional, and general anesthesia. It is important that you follow all preoperative orders in order to reduce risks associated with anesthesia.

What to Expect

  • Pain Relief

We offer several types of pain management procedures and medications. The type of anesthesia you receive will be based on the type of surgery being performed. We will be constantly assessing your pain from the time you are admitted until you receive our postoperative call at home using the Visual Analog or Faces Pain Scale (insert image). This allows us to determine if there has been any significant pain increase or decrease.

  • Developing Your Anesthesia Plan

Your anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist will talk to you prior to your surgery. This usually takes place on the day of surgery and includes questions about your medical history, review of any laboratory tests and provide an opportunity for you to ask questions or discuss any concerns you have regarding anesthesia. This allows your anesthesiologist to make a recommended plan specific for you based on your surgical procedure, your general medical condition and your preferences.

  • In the Operating Room

Your anesthesiologist is uniquely qualified and personally responsible for directing your anesthetic while in the operating room. A member of the anesthesia care team will monitor your physical status closely and insure all vital functions such as heart rate and rhythm, blood pressure, temperature and breathing are managed properly.

  • Recovery after Surgery

Following your surgery, your vital functions will continue to be monitored by nurses. Medications may be given to minimize postoperative pain, nausea and vomiting, as needed. When you are ready, you will be offered something to drink, a family member or friend will be allowed to come and sit with you, and you will be assisted in getting up. Most patients are ready to go home between 1-2 hours after surgery.

– Pain Control or Complications at Home: 

You will receive oral and written instructions on how to manage your pain and care for yourself once you arrive home. You will be given a phone number to call if you have questions or concerns after you get home. Be prepared to go home and continue recovery there.

– In general, for the first 24 hours after your anesthesia:

> Do not drink alcohol

> Do not drive a car

> Do not make important decisions

> Family – do not leave the patient alone for the first day

Common side effects include drowsiness, muscle aches, sore throat, headaches, mild nausea which usually decline rapidly in the hours following surgery.

  • Resuming Activity

Most patients do not feel up to their usual activities the next day. Plan to take it easy for a few days. The day after surgery, you will be contacted to see how you feel and to see if you are having any problems.

Payment Options

  • Insurance

We accept most major insurance providers. If you have any billing questions, call 256-736-2811 and ask for our billing department. We must make a copy of each insurance card at the time of registration.

Select Care

Your Select Care copay amount is due on or before your date of service. We will submit your bill directly to Select Care. A bill will be sent to your secondary insurance upon receipt of payment or denial from Select Care. If you have no secondary insurance, a bill will be sent to you for any balance not covered.

  • Self-Pay

You will be contacted prior to your surgery with an estimated procedure cost for the facility fee. A down payment equal to ½ of the total estimated amount due is expected the day of your procedure. If you are unable to pay ½ the day of your procedure, you will be asked to complete a financial agreement. A good faith payment should be made and the remaining balance will be divided up into 3 monthly payments so that your account has been resolved with the 90 day time frame.

Prompt Pay Discount

We offer a 10% discount to self-pay patients whose account estimate is paid in full the day of the surgery/procedure.

Cosmetic Surgery & Elective Surgery

Payment in full must be received 10 days prior to surgery.

Cullman Regional Surgery Center Doctors

Charles S. Bluhm MD

Gastroenterology

Accepting New Patients

K. Mac Cottingham, MD

Surgery, Bariatric Surgery, Robotic Surgery

Accepting New Patients

David Dueland, MD

Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine

Accepting New Patients

John Evans, MD

General Surgery, Thoracic Surgery, Vascular

Accepting New Patients

Eric Fillinger, DPM

Podiatric Surgery

Accepting New Patients

Zachary Glaser, MD

Robotic Surgery

Accepting New Patients

Ben Gomez, MD

Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine

Accepting New Patients

Stephen Gould, MD

Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine

Accepting New Patients

David J. Landy, M.D.

Gastroenterology

Accepting New Patients

Donald Marecle, MD

Surgery

Accepting New Patients

Brad Moody, MD

General Surgery, Thoracic Surgery, Robotic S

Accepting New Patients

Alice H. Morgan, MD

Otolaryngology / ENT

Accepting New Patients

Bruce A. Morgan, MD

Otolaryngology / ENT

Accepting New Patients

Rodney Sanders, MD

Urology

Accepting New Patients

Steve Seidel, M.D.

Plastic Surgery

Accepting New Patients

David Shupe, DO

Family Practice

Accepting New Patients

B. Mark Tafazoli, MD

Sleep Medicine, Family Practice

Accepting New Patients

John G. Wideman, MD

Obstetrics, Gynecology

Accepting New Patients

Frequently Asked Questions


Do I need to visit the center before my surgery date?

  • For families with small children, we are happy to schedule a preoperative tour prior to your surgery date.
  • Pre-registration: We encourage our patients to register online; however, if you prefer, you may choose to come to the Center before their surgery date to complete paperwork or make payments. All preoperative documentation should be complete before the day of surgery.

What should I wear?

Please wear comfortable clothing. Button-down shirts or blouses are best. Wear comfortable shoes. Leave all jewelry at home, including body-piercing jewelry. If you wear contact lenses, you will probably have to remove them for the surgery, so consider bringing your glasses. If you have to wear your contacts, please bring contact solution and contacts case. Please do not wear any make-up as this can hide certain clinical signs. Please remove all body piercings.


What if I cannot make my appointment?

Please notify the surgeon and the Surgery Center of Cullman at 256-736-2811 as early as possible if you cannot make your scheduled appointment. Early notification can help us better accommodate you and other patients.


May I pre-register for my surgery?

Yes. Click here to register online.


Why must I refrain from eating and/or drinking prior to surgery?

You refrain from eating and/or drinking prior to surgery in order to prevent the risks of aspirating gastric contents during your surgery. This complication is very serious and you need to strictly abide by our recommendations. This has nothing to do with nausea and vomiting after your surgery as some think. Fasting time should be as short as possible before your surgery. You will not improve your safety by not eating or drinking longer than necessary; in fact, at times you may complicate things a bit. Children have different fasting schedules than adults – so please check in the Children and Special Needs Patients section above.


Should I take my usual daily medication?

  • Generally, we request that you take your daily medication before leaving home. However, diabetes medication and blood thinners may be stopped prior to surgery. You should be contacted before your surgery leaving no doubts in your mind as to which medications you should take. Please bring all your medications with you.
  • People using inhalers must bring them to the Center on the day of surgery.

May I continue my herbal medications?

Herbal medications may have harmful effects on the surgery including your ability to clot or can interfere with anesthesia. We generally request that you stop these medications two weeks before surgery, and ask that you remember to mention these remedies when being asked about medication by your physician.


Who may accompany me?

  • Each patient is welcome to bring one person with you. They are welcome to sit with you both prior to surgery and after the surgery if you like.
  • For children, often two parents and/or guardians will accompany him or her. We will do our best to accommodate everyone; however, one parent and/or guardian will be permitted into the recovery room at a time.
  • Please refrain from bringing young children as guests.

Will I receive sedation before going into the operating room?

Each patient’s care if individualized. This will be discussed with you prior to surgery.


Will I be contacted before my surgery?

Yes. We call each patient before the surgery to gather information that is helpful to us and hopefully answer any of your questions. Preoperative instructions will be given by the nurse who calls you. If you have not received a call by 4 pm the day before your surgery, you may call us directly at 256-736-2811.


Should I bathe and wash my hair before leaving home?

Yes. You can comfortably take a shower, bathe, brush your teeth, etc. Please do not use make up, hair spray, nail polish or toiletries. These may interfere with the anesthesia monitoring and possibly hide clinical signs from the anesthesiologist.


What should I do if I am not feeling well?

If you are not feeling well, please contact your surgeon immediately. During normal business hours, you can call the our staff for advice at 256-736-2811. There are some surgeries which are safer if delayed when you are sick. We need to know specific details to make the decision. Please do not delay in contacting your surgeon or us.


What should I do if I started my menstrual cycle?

This will not affect most surgical procedures. There are a few specific gynecological procedures which may be impacted by menstruation. Call us if you have any questions at 256-736-2811.


What should I do if I believe that I am pregnant?

It is very important for us to be aware of this possibility. Only essential surgery is done on pregnant patients. If there is any doubt please contact us immediately.


May I drive home?

Generally, no; any patient receiving anesthesia should not drive until the next day. A patient receiving sedation for a procedure needs a ride home. Patients will not be allowed to drive, walk or take public transportation after sedation or anesthesia. Please make the appropriate arrangements.


May I speak to my anesthesiologist before the surgery?

All patients will be seen by the anesthesiologist on the day of surgery prior to entering the operating room. You will have plenty of time to ask any questions you may have. If you need to speak to the anesthesiologist before the day of surgery, please call us at 256-736-2811 to schedule a preoperative interview or schedule a time to have your questions answered, or you may email your questions here.


What if I have special needs?

We will make every effort to accommodate any special needs you may have. Please call the Surgery Center in advance so we can properly prepare to make you comfortable and make your day easier.


Should I bring my special needs equipment?

Yes. Please bring any walkers, post-op crutches, hearing aids, etc.


What must I bring with me on the day of surgery?

  • Bring case for eyeglasses or contacts
  • Bring insurance identification cards, driver’s license, completed billing forms, copayments
  • Bring all medication
  • Make sure you have a ride home and someone to care for you at home
  • Bring a favorite bottle or “sippy cup” for your child
  • Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing
  • Leave all jewelry and valuables at home

How will my pain be managed?

Your pain management is very important to us. We will be constantly assessing your pain from the time you are admitted until you receive our postoperative call at home using the Visual Analog or Faces Pain Scale (insert image) Using the results of our communication we will alter the therapy as needed in order to assure your comfort. We use a combination of different modalities to help make you comfortable, from oral medications, intravenous medications, nerve blocks, injection of local anesthetic during the surgery, etc. and prior to the surgery, the management of your pain should be discussed with both your anesthesiologist and surgeon. Please feel free to bring up any concerns or fears you may have. Remember that information on pain management gives you the appropriate expectations and hence a smoother, more comfortable recovery.


May I request what type of anesthesia I will receive?

Yes, in certain situations. Some operations can be performed using a choice of different anesthetic types. Your anesthesiologist will discuss available options with you after reviewing your medical history. Your preference will be discussed so that the most appropriate anesthetic plan is made.


Will I receive any sedatives before surgery?

You and your anesthesiologist will develop your specialized anesthesia care plan.


What are the risks of anesthesia?

All operations and all anesthetics have risks that are dependent upon many factors including type of surgery and the medical condition of the patient. Most patients operated on in surgery centers are of the healthier group of patients, and in these circumstances serious complications, while they can occur, are fortunately very rare.


May I go into the operating room with my child?

There will be circumstances where it is appropriate for a parent to come into the operating room. Studies and experience show that this decision needs to be individualized and discussed between you and your anesthesiologist. There are many situations where other choices are better and possibly even safer.

Billing Frequently Asked Questions


Why am I receiving more than one bill for the same surgery?

There may be a number of separate charges associated with your surgical procedure. You MAY receive charges from several companies.

  • Your anesthesiologist for anesthesia.
  • Your surgeon’s office – his/her professional fee for performing your surgery.
  • Your pathologist – services for tissue specimens removed during surgery requiring further examination.
  • An extended home health care service.

What type of credit cards do you accept?

We accept all major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express and CareCredit. You are welcome to visit the CareCredit website at: www.carecredit.com to pre-apply for their services before your date of surgery. WE ARE UNABLE TO ACCEPT CHECKS.


When should I expect my first bill?

We will bill you any balance due after your insurance company has paid your claim. There may be a delay if your insurance company has paid us incorrectly and we have re-submitted your claim for a corrected payment and allowance determination.


Do you charge interest?

No, we do not charge interest.


Are we able to set up a payment plan?

We do ask that all balances are paid in full within 90 days.  If you encounter problems paying within the 90 days, please contact our office immediately at 256-736-2811 and ask for our collections department.


What is your credit and payment policy?

  • Unless arrangements are made in advance, full payment is due within 90 days of your surgery. Elective and cosmetic surgery procedures must be paid in full prior to your surgery date.
  • We strongly encourage you to personally contact your insurance company about your upcoming surgery. It is mandatory that YOU, as the insurance subscriber, confirm that all prior authorization information necessary to your specific policy is completed before your surgery date.  You may be penalized by your insurance company if you don’t follow your policy guidelines.  You must understand what your benefits cover and how this may affect you financially.
  • We will submit insurance claims for you. We may request that your deductible and copay amounts are paid on or before your date of surgery.  You will receive a notice from us regarding the amount to pay.  Self-pay accounts are asked to pay 50% of the total estimated procedure on or before the date of surgery and to also sign a financial agreement keeping in mind that our balances are due within 90 days.
  • If you anticipate difficulty in paying your bill within the 90 day period please let us know immediately.

Office Hours


Monday – Friday: 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Location


1403 Wall Street NE

Cullman, AL 35055

Contact


Telephone: 256-736-2811
Fax: 256-736-2589

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a freestanding ER and a hospital-based ER?

The difference between a freestanding ER and a hospital-based ER is the process of admitting a patient to the hospital. At a freestanding ER, a patient who needs to be admitted to a hospital for inpatient care will be transported by ambulance or medical helicopter. These patients are directly admitted to the appropriate hospital unit and do not get re-evaluated by the hospital’s ER.

What is the difference between a freestanding ER and an urgent care clinic?

A freestanding ER operates 24/7, is staffed with board-certified emergency medicine physicians and is capable of caring for patients in critical medical conditions. Typically, urgent care clinics have limited hours of operation and may utilize mid-level providers like nurse practitioners for patient care. Urgent care clinics can be a good option for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries.

Will doctors work at the ER?

Yes, Hartselle Health Park ER is staffed by board-certified emergency medicine physicians as well as registered nurses, lab technicians and radiology technicians.

What if a patient needs to be hospitalized?

At a freestanding ER, a patient who needs to be admitted to a hospital for inpatient care will be transported by ambulance or medical helicopter. These patients are directly admitted to the appropriate hospital unit and do not get re-evaluated by the hospital’s ER.

Will the ER have the same capabilities as a hospital-based ER?

Yes, Hartselle Health Park ER can treat any of the conditions a hospital-based ER can. It is equipped with specialized physicians and clinical teams, on-site imaging technology including MRI and CT, on-site lab services, an ambulance bay and helipad.

Hartselle Health Park Entrance

Hartselle Health Park ER Waiting Area

Hartselle Health Park ER Nurses’ Station

Hartselle Health Park ER Treatment Room