Hernia surgery next week — who can take me home if family can’t?

For outpatient hernia surgery, the surgery center will expect a responsible adult to take you home, and you should not drive that day. Your surgeon will tell you when driving and lifting are safe again.

The first day or two are usually about rest, pain medication on schedule, and moving carefully: getting in and out of bed, the bathroom, simple meals.

If family cannot come, a medical escort can take you to the surgery and home. A trained home health aide picks you up at home, rides with you by accessible vehicle or Uber, stays in the room through the visit, takes notes on what the doctor says, and brings you home and settled. If you want help at home afterward, you can book an aide by the hour (four-hour minimum per visit).

ProLife's medical escort is private pay: $32 an hour, or a flat $145–$250 for the whole visit (pickup, staying through the appointment, and the ride home). Medicaid and Medicare do not cover it. Prices can change; current rates: https://prolifehc.com/medical-escort/

Book as soon as you have the date, ideally 48–72 hours ahead; shorter notice is possible when someone is available. Call (718) 232-2777.