FAQs
Do I need a physician's referral to schedule an appointment?
No! You do not need a referral to schedule an appointment at any of our locations (Kearney or McCook).
Do I have a co-pay?
Please check with your insurance company. Sometimes co-pays are listed on your insurance card, but it is still a good idea to check. Any co-pays will be due at the time of service.
Do I have to bring my plain x-rays, as well as my MRI or CT scans?
Yes. We ask that you bring any MRIs, CT scans or plain x-rays to your appointment with you, unless other arrangements have been made (pictures and reports).
We only need spine-related films.
If you have any questions regarding this, please contact our office.
Does Central Nebraska Spinal Surgery Center participate with my insurance plan?
Central Nebraska Spinal Surgery Center is a healthcare provider for several insurance plans. Please check with your insurance carrier to determine if we participate in your plan.
If your spine care is covered by insurance, you will need to give us the name of your insurance company and your insurance ID card so we can make a copy of it for our files. If you have a change in your insurance coverage, or more than one health insurance policy, and want claims filed with both companies, please let us know. There is a nominal charge for other types of forms. These charges are to be paid in advance of the service.
Will I need to have surgery?
Our physician can not determine whether you need surgery or not, without completing a full examination of you and reviewing any necessary tests. At Central Nebraska Spinal Surgery Center, our philosophy is to exhaust all conservative treatment options (i.e. rest, medication, physical therapy, use of brace) before surgery is considered.
Is there a cancellation list, so that I might be called to see the doctor sooner?
Yes, our office does keep a running cancellation list. Please contact our office at
(308)865-2557 to be placed on this list.
Please keep in mind that sometimes our cancellations come at very short notice,
we will let you know as soon as we can if there is any openings.
How much time should I allow for my first appointment?
Our physician can not determine whether you need surgery or not, without completing a full examination of you and reviewing any necessary tests. At Central Nebraska Spinal Surgery Center, our philosophy is to exhaust all conservative treatment options (i.e. rest, medication, physical therapy, use of brace) before surgery is considered.
Dr. Benavides prefers that any patient considering surgery, stop smoking for at least 4 weeks prior to surgery and through the healing process. Healing tissues require a fresh and steady supply of blood. Smoking puts nicotine in your blood. Nicotine causes blood vessels to become narrower, which limits how much oxygen, nutrients, blood cells, and other important healing agents can get through.
Certain parts of your spine, especially in the lumbar area, have naturally limited blood supply. Smoking after spine surgery can further limit the blood supply. This can slow the healing process, and may even lead to other complications during your recovery.