Blog
Behind the Scenes at MCMC: Surgery
Learn more about surgeries at MCMC
Here at Murray County Medical Center, we are incredibly lucky to have a surgery department that's staffed with some amazing, skilled individuals. We had our surgery supervisor, Jody Jackels, answer some questions to help all of us learn more about the surgery department here at MCMC.
Because we are a smaller facility, I don't think people always realize we have a surgery department onsite. Can you give a breakdown of our surgery department for those in the community that maybe don't know about it?
Many people are surprised to learn that MCMC has a fully functioning surgery department right here in our community. We offer a variety of surgical services that allow patients to receive quality care close to home without having to travel long distances. Our surgery department includes a highly trained team of surgeons, anesthesia providers, registered nurses, and surgical technologists who work together to provide safe, patient-centered care. We perform a range of procedures, from outpatient surgeries that allow patients to return home the same day to other procedures that may require a short hospital stay. Our goal is to provide convenient access to surgical care while maintaining the same high standards patients would expect from larger healthcare systems.
What happens before a patient ever sets foot in your department?
A tremendous amount of preparation takes place before a patient arrives for surgery. Once a procedure is scheduled, our team reviews the patient's medical history, medications, allergies, and any necessary testing to ensure everything is in place for a safe surgical experience. Patients will receive written instructions through the mail and a preoperative phone call where we review instructions, answer questions, and discuss what to expect on the day of surgery. Behind the scenes, our surgical team is coordinating schedules, preparing equipment, verifying supplies, and reviewing each patient's specific needs. By the time a patient walks through our doors, there has already been significant planning and teamwork focused entirely on their care.
Typically, during a surgery, there are numerous staff members involved. How does the surgery department handle working as a team?
Surgery is truly a team effort. Every member of the team has a specific role, and because we are a smaller department, our staff works closely together every day, which builds strong relationships, trust, and collaboration. Communication is one of the most important aspects of what we do. Prior to every procedure, the team participates in a "Time Out" as part of a safety check to prior to all surgeries. Throughout the surgery, team members continuously communicate and support one another to ensure everything runs smoothly. That familiarity helps us provide efficient, coordinated care while making patients feel comfortable and supported.
What is a misconception or something people may not realize about MCMC's surgery department?
One common misconception is that patients need to travel to a larger city for every surgical procedure. While certain highly specialized surgeries may require referral to larger centers, many procedures can be safely and successfully performed right here at MCMC. People may also not realize how personalized the experience can be in a rural healthcare setting. Our team has the opportunity to spend more time getting to know patients, answer questions, and provide individualized care. It's not uncommon for patients to be a friend, family, or neighbor of the staff caring for them or to know someone on the surgical team from the community. That personal connection is something special to our staff and many patients truly appreciate.
If a patient wanted to request their surgery gets completed at MCMC, how would they go about this process?
Patients who would like to have their surgery performed at MCMC should start by discussing their preference with their primary care provider or the provider recommending the procedure. Depending on the type of surgery and the patient's individual needs, the provider can determine whether the procedure is appropriate to be performed at MCMC. Patients are always encouraged to ask about local options. Our team is happy to work with referring providers and patients to help coordinate care whenever possible so they can receive treatment closer to home.
Is there anything you'd want our patients and community to know about surgery at MCMC or rural healthcare?
I would want our patients and community to know that high-quality surgical care exists right here at home. Our team is incredibly dedicated to providing safe, compassionate care while keeping patients close to their families, support systems, and communities. We are proud of the variety of services offered here at MCMC, expertise, teamwork, and unmatched commitment our surgery department brings to every patient encounter. It is a privilege to care for our neighbors, friends, and community members, and we are committed to providing the best possible experience before, during, and after surgery.