MRSA testing
 

Is testing for MRSA a pre-op requirement for surgery abroad?

It was with Dr Ritter-Lang, Dr Bierstedt and Mr Dare. So I guess the answer is "yes". I would find out every test you need first (once you decide on a surgeon and date). Many of these tests need to be done within 30 days of your procedure. If you don't want to go to your regular doctor (who might question your going abroad for surgery), go to a walk in clinic and have it done there.

Dr. Clavel is now requiring it also.

I did not have a MRSA test done before my surgery.

Newlease, that's probably because you had your surgery done in an American Hospital, which just happened to be in Cyprus. MRSA is much less common in European hospitals than those in the U.S. I can't really comment on it's presence in Cyprus.

Gene

I had my surgery in December 2012 with Dr. Bierstedt. I can recommend him. I did not have to go through the MRSA test but I was willing to do it. MRSA is nasty, I can see why they require the test. Chances are you won't have it, but if you test positive, in my opinion, back sugery is not going to be your top priority.

I had surgery with Dr. Clavel in October 2012 and it was not required. Ask them for a list of any tests they want done prior to your surgery.