 This study evaluates needs-based patient education in reducing preoperative anxiety. To assess patient needs, a questionnaire is used as a tool. After receiving completed questionnaire, the physician provides information based on patient needs. Not only patients will benefit from this questionnaire but also physicians. The questionnaire enables physician to cut unnecessary information and pay more attention to the fact that patients need. Less information needed is less time spent in patient education session. As the most important reason why patient education is omitted is shortness of time. This needs-based patient education can contribute tremendously to the way we educate surgical patients. 