Frequently Asked Questions

Patient & Visitor Information

What do I need to bring when I register as a patient?
The following items are required each time you visit the hospital in order to complete the registration process: Photo ID (drivers license, work id, etc), Insurance cards (commercial, Medicare, public aid), your doctor’s orders for test (Lab tests, X-Rays, Physical Therapy), and referral or authorization, if applicable.
What should I NOT bring when I come to register as a patient?
Do not bring any medications (unless instructed by your doctor), jewelry, credit cards, purse or wallet, personal televisions, electric radios or hair dryers. If you should happen to bring any valuables with you, Thorek has a secure place where they can be stored during your stay.
What if I forget to bring one of these items with me?
Two or more of the items mentioned above are required at the time of service. If your particular insurance requires a referral or prior authorization, please bring it with you. Arriving without the necessary documentation may result in lengthy delays or even the need to re-schedule your appointment a later date. 

If you forget your insurance card - you will be asked to send in a copy of the front and back of the card plus a copy of your photo ID. A pre-addressed envelope will be provided. 

If you do not have health insurance - you should contact our customer service representative at 773-525-6780. You may be required to make a deposit and arrange a payment plan. The hospital honors Visa, MasterCard and Discover. 

If you were involved in an auto accident - you will be billed as a self-pay patient. You and the other party involved in the accident will need to forward bills you receive to your auto insurance company to handle. If you have any questions concerning the matter of auto accidents, call a customer service representative at 773-525-6780.
How do I arrange my pre-admission testing?
Your doctor will enter pre-admission testing orders directly into the hospital's computer system. When you arrive at Registration, they will be accessed.
How long before my scheduled appointment should I plan on arriving at the hospital?
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment.
Should I call the day before to pay for my treatment?
It is a good idea to call the day before to confirm your appointment day and time.
Do I need to bring money to pay for my treatment?
In some cases a deposit or payment in full is required at the time of service. It is always a good idea to ask if this applies to your situation. Payments can be made in cash, by check or by credit card.
Where in the hospital is the Admitting Department located?
There are three Admitting Office sites to serve you: 
i. Same Day Surgery: 2nd Flr. Rm. 208 
ii. Clinic Registration: 1st Flr. ACS Clinic (X-rays & Laboratory) 
iii. In-Patient Registration: 1st Flr. Lobby (Cardio & Physical Therapy) 
What are the office hours for the Admitting Office?
i. Monday to Friday: 6:30 AM - 9:00 PM 
ii. Saturday: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM 
iii. Sunday: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM 
Will I be charged for telephone calls made from my room?
You will not be charged for telephone calls. Please note, only local telephone service is available from room phones.
Can someone assist with after-care planning?
There are hospital representatives that work in discharge planning who are available to assist your with after-care services.
Are pastoral services available?
Upon your request, arrangements can be made to have a representative from the religious denomination of your choice visit you in the hospital.
What is the main telephone number of the hospital?
Friends and family may reach a patient by calling 773-525-6780 and following the given instructions
Visiting hours
Visiting Hours are from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM. No more than 2 visitors are allowed in a patient’s room at one time. Children under 12 years of age are not permitted to visit patients. Children should not be left in any area of the hospital without adult supervision.
Parking
Parking for patients and visitors is free. The visitor parking lot is located on the West side of the hospital across from the main entrance.
Cafeteria
Thorek Café is open to the public Monday - Friday breakfast 7:30 AM - 10:00 AM, lunch 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, snack 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, dinner 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM, and for lunch Saturday and Sunday 11:00 AM - 1:30 PM.
Spanish Interpreter
A Spanish Interpreter is available Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM in the Patient Satisfaction Department.