After a free screening reveals a vein condition, we often have patients ask about when the best time is to get started on treatment. It's common for people to want it done by the end of the year. If that's the case, we recommend starting sooner than you might think. In fact, the earlier in the year the better. Things like insurance delays, deductibles, and waiting periods can slow the process down significantly. So if you want your treatment plan complete by a certain date, here are some considerations for deciding when to get started.
Your Insurance
The most important consideration for most patients is your insurance and your annual deductible. The annual deductible starts over the first of the year, and for that reason, people often like to start early enough that they can get everything done by the end of the year and not incur any additional out-of-pocket expenses. If that’s your preference, be aware that some insurance companies may slow down your approval process - which means you may not be able to get all your treatments in before your deductible year ends.
Additionally, some insurance companies require a 3-month waiting period followed by additional approval delays. Because of that, we strongly encourage people to come in early in the year (winter and spring) to get started - at least 6 months in advance. For those who want the process done before the end of the year, waiting until August may be too late. You want to be in the drivers seat for your own health care choices, and starting early gives you the ability to do so.
Your Pain & Discomfort Level - How Bad Is It?
It's not normal to be run-down and tired at the end of the day with achy legs. It's not a regular part of getting older. If your symptoms are keeping you from a happy, healthy, active and pain-free lifestyle, it doesn’t make sense to suffer needlessly when you can take action immediately. Stop missing out on life, avoiding your favorite activities, losing time with children or grandchildren and having to sit out of family events because of your symptoms are unbearable. Bottom line, if it's that bad, don't wait. The number one comment we hear from patients after treatment is “I wish I’d done this years ago!”
Timing
Be aware that for you to realize the full benefit from treatment takes several months. You’ll need to allow time for your veins to heal and fade away. While many patients notice benefits immediately, the complete process takes time - often 2-3 months, and you can’t come in May, for example, expecting to be “done” by June. This is important if you have a "deadline" coming up like another medical procedure ( for example, knee replacement surgery) or planned travel.
Your Work or Vacation Schedule
In most cases, you can leave for a vacation the next day - simply pause the treatments and resume them when you return. If you want to have the best cosmetic appearance for vacation time (i.e. to wear shorts, dresses or swimsuits), plan your treatments 2-3 months prior to travel so that treatments have time to take effect and cosmetic changes are complete. Consider also how your work schedule may change. For example, a teacher who has summers off may start treatment on the first day of summer break and finish treatments prior to school starting in the fall.
Compression Stockings
Cooler weather months make it easy those who want to avoid wearing compression stockings during warmer months, however many people do just fine with compression stockings year round. They makes your legs feel better before and during treatment. However, if you enjoy wearing wearing shorts or knee-length dresses in the spring and summer, you'll want to schedule your evaluation 3-4 months prior, and start treatment a minimum of 2-3 months prior.Don’t wait. Call us to talk with our insurance specialists and let us know your goals and timeline. We can help you navigate the insurance process and plan your treatments so that you're feeling better on your schedule, not someone else's.
