Outpatient vein care means you have your procedure and go home the same day, in a clinic or freestanding lab instead of a hospital. FCCI does its vein care this way, which it says keeps costs low and services convenient.
A bit of history
Traditionally, catheter procedures on blood vessels were done in hospitals. In 2007, FCCI opened the first freestanding outpatient cardiac and peripheral vascular catheterization lab in Jacksonville. A second followed in Palatka in 2016. Both are accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care. FCCI notes it was the first in the region to offer these procedures in an outpatient setting, reducing out-of-pocket costs and offering a comfortable, convenient setting.
What it means for you
- Cost. FCCI says outpatient care helps keep your costs lower.
- Comfort. A smaller setting focused on vascular care.
- Time. You go home the same day in most cases.
- Continuity. The same practice handles your ultrasound, procedure and follow-up.
Which vein procedures are outpatient
- Endovascular laser, about an hour
- Phlebectomy through tiny punctures
- Sclerotherapy for spider and reticular veins
- Deep vein care in the cath lab: venography, IVUS, venoplasty and stents
Your doctor will tell you where your procedure happens and what to plan for.
When a hospital is needed
Some situations still call for a hospital. FCCI provides coverage to most hospitals in Northeast Florida, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for services it cannot perform in its offices. Emergencies always go to the ER: if you have chest pain or trouble breathing, call 911.
Questions to ask
- Will my procedure be done in the office or the cath lab?
- How long should I plan to be there?
- Do I need someone to drive me home?
- What will my plan cover for this setting?
Checking your cost
Your exact cost still depends on your plan and treatment. Call 904.493.3333 and ask the team to check your benefits before you schedule.
TeleVisits and follow-ups
Outpatient care can be even closer than an office. FCCI offers TeleVisits for some appointments, needing only high speed internet and a phone, tablet or computer. No app or sign-in is involved; a text arrives with a link, you tap it, allow audio and video, and the visit starts. Call 904.493.3333 to see if one fits your follow-up. Ultrasounds and procedures remain in person.
A quick word on CVI
Whether care happens in an outpatient lab or a hospital, the condition behind it is often the same: chronic venous insufficiency. FCCI notes it affects roughly 25 million Americans, and that 50% of women and 40% of men have a venous issue. CVI can follow family history, hormones, injury or a past deep vein clot, and untreated it can bring swelling, serious leg infections and clots. Pain on standing that eases with your legs up, itching, skin changes and ulcers are common clues.
Simple habits that help your legs
Wherever you get treated, these habits can help your legs between visits. Ask about them:
- Walk daily to keep your calf pump working.
- Elevate your legs when you rest.
- Break up long sitting or standing.
- Ask if compression stockings suit your situation.
- Write down when aching or swelling is worst.
They support outpatient care rather than replacing it, and they are easy to begin.
Prefer an outpatient visit over a hospital stay? Ask whether your vein care can be done at FCCI by calling 904.493.3333, weekdays 8am to 5pm, or through our booking page. Sudden swelling with chest pain or trouble breathing still means call 911.
