Prehabilitation Before Surgery

Why prehab?

The weeks before surgery are a powerful and often unused window. Preparing your body beforehand is linked to fewer complications, shorter hospital stays and faster recovery.

What's included

• A 6-week virtual group program covering movement, nutrition, sleep, stress, smoking and alcohol, and getting ready for surgery. You can join any week.

• Sessions tailored to your type of surgery and your health conditions.

• A remote screen before you start, checking fitness, nutrition, anemia, blood sugar, sleep apnea and more. Anything that needs attention is sent to your doctor.

Who it's for

Anyone waiting for elective surgery, especially people with:

• low fitness or frailty

• diabetes or metabolic concerns

• anemia or poor nutrition

• heart risk

• cancer surgery on a fixed timeline

It's suitable for cancer, abdominal and colorectal, gynecologic, joint replacement, breast and other major surgery.

How to refer

• A referral is required from a family physician, nurse practitioner or specialist.

• Fax: 778-729-1243. Please include the planned surgery date.

• Refer at least 6 weeks before surgery if possible. Earlier is better.

Cost

• Group sessions: covered by MSP for referred, eligible BC patients.

• Private preventive-health consultations: occasionally available, at $350/hour, pro-rated.

• Anesthesia consultations: not offered here. Please contact the anesthesia department at your hospital.

Working with your care team

This program complements your existing care; it doesn't replace it. Recommendations are shared with your surgeon and family physician, who remain responsible for your surgical and primary care.