In the Washington DC and Northern Virginia region, hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers—including Johns Hopkins Sibley Memorial, Inova Fairfax, and MedStar Georgetown University Hospital—all enforce the same policy: patients cannot leave alone after outpatient surgery. A trusted adult, healthcare companion, or chaperone is required to check you in, stay during the procedure, and escort you home.
Why These Rules Exist
Discharge planners and schedulers in DC and NOVA know the risks: anesthesia, sedation, and pain medications leave patients temporarily impaired. A rideshare driver or taxi cannot verify instructions, assist with mobility, or take responsibility for your safety. Without a proper companion, facilities may cancel or reschedule your procedure.
Procedures That Require a Companion
- Endoscopy and GI procedures – sedation requires a responsible adult at check-in and discharge.
- Plastic surgery – common in the DC metro area, especially for out-of-town patients.
- Orthopedic and eye procedures – patients often need assistance with mobility and post-op care.
How MyFredy Supports DC & NOVA Patients
MyFredy’s Washington DC medical escort service provides compliant healthcare companions for patients across the region. Our companions arrive before check-in, remain during your procedure, and ensure a safe discharge home or to a hotel. We also handle pharmacy stops when needed, giving families peace of mind.
Resources for Patients and Families
Review provider requirements, check our pricing and FAQs, or see our guide for caregivers. These resources explain what providers require and how MyFredy helps patients stay compliant.
External Resource
See Inova Fairfax Hospital’s surgery preparation guide for additional details about discharge policies.
From DC to Northern Virginia, providers are clear: patients cannot recover alone. A trusted adult, healthcare companion, or chaperone is required. MyFredy ensures compliance so patients can focus on healing, not logistics.
