[runnerup]

I have this exact same problem for an annual procedure that I travel cross-country to. I used to be able skirt the rules by claiming I had someone with me but then they changed the rules and now need that person to be with me when I check in. It’s a huge pain in the butt, I don’t know anyone in Cleveland and I hate to make family fly/drive and stay in a hotel overnight for a very minor procedure…which needs to be done at that specific hospital because they specialize in my specific condition.

[emteycz]

I don't understand this. Why would you need someone with you on check-in if you're an adult? Why would someone need to pick you up if it's just a minor procedure? Why don't you just pack up, sign the papers and go on your way? It's not like they can hold you there, right?

[runnerup]

It's a minor procedure but it involves sedative / light anesthesia. Basically I have to get my lower GI tract investigated for pre-cancer every year and they try to remove any faster growths. Nothings ever turned up malignant yet, but it's an annual check-up just in case. They give me some light sedative while they put hoses and tubes in my rectum. Perhaps I could forego the anesthesia, I haven't asked.

The "we can't let you drive yourself home" policy is always due to anesthesia/sedatives. If you're not receiving those then you can drive yourself.