getting a run around

hi everyone, can anyone tell me if its normal to get a run around from dr.s office to get a apt.with the sergeon?,,i have completed every step almost 2 months now and still am getting a run around,one min. they tell me its the insurance,then they tell me waiting on heart dr approval,or pulmonary approval,they just cant seem to get it together for me,and i am really anxious,i want to be thin and healthier in oct,for my birthday,,someone help!!!!!!!!!!! cyndee

If you feel as though you are getting the run around then please feel free to contact or email me directly. However, not once have you been told that its your insurance because that's not even submitted until AFTER you see one of the doctors. There is a process that needs to be followed so that we can make sure that you are medically and psychologically ready and stable for surgery. It was clearly spelled out for you at the information session. We are not a doctors office that meets you and then 2 months later you are having surgery...we have a multidispilinary program. Again, if there is anything that you would like to discuss, please email or call me directly. Jessica

If you truly feel that way, then perhaps it's in your best interest to contact another surgeon and look into their program. Just a thought... But, also take into consideration that this can be a very complicated process and sometimes difficult to get through no matter what surgeon you use. So, take a good hard look at WHY you're using your surgeon. If you truly feel they are the best option for you, then you've got to stick it out and hang in there. I also think that it would be better if personnel from Dr's offices keep their communications with you PRIVATE. I understand that you posted your frustration publically, however, that doesn't mean the response had to be similar. Aren't there HIPPA guidelines or something?... Besides, unless one is psychic, there is no ONE person in a Dr's office that knows beyond a dobut what you have or have not been told or who you've spoken too. Perhaps there was some miscommunication that should be taken into account before chastizing how someone feels. I would prefer that my Dr's office give me the benefit of the dobut in what I think I've been told and communicate with me privately. Perhaps a response like: 'I'm sorry you're feeling frustrated. I'm emailing you privately so that we can discuss." would have made you -and me- feel better (and in my opinion would be more apropriate- JMHO) Then again, perhaps I'm being particualry picky/snippy/sensitive today. So- again, JMHO. Good luck to you and hang in there!! i remember the wait- and it wasn't fun. best regards, Lisa C

thank you lisa,oh and by the way,,i read your profile,,what a wonderful profile and report ,,you look great,,wow,,i cant wait,,what a inspiration you are...

Opinion follows: I suggest you follow Lisa's sage advice about keeping the specifics of your medical information private. That being said, I think weight loss surgery is not something you plan like replacing the carpeting the living room or taking a trip to Florida. The whole process from information meeting to surgery takes an extended period of time. I realize that you want to be healthier in October, but you would be wise the follow the process so you don't undergo any unnecessary risks during surgery or experience serious complications due to some other underlying medical condition. I understand you are anxious, I was also. There's no arguing that the process can be slow and frustrating at times, but you've already taken the right steps and just need to be patient and allow things get resolved. However, there's also nothing wrong with calling your providers, make yourself a squeaky wheel if necessary. I personally favor the squeaky wheel approach. You may also elect to choose another surgeon if you are uncomfortable or unsatisfied with your current choice. My guess is that may slow things up even more, but I'm not sure. In my case, it took a year and a half from my first meeting to my surgery. I hear that some folks have done much better, but in hindsight I'm glad I didn't rush into it with a particular date in mind. I learned a lot, and was better prepared for what I would be facing post-surgery, and as a result had a much better understanding of the whole process. As far as the choice of a surgeon, this is surely a personal choice and if you're not comfortable with Dr. Barba, then by all means find another surgeon that you feel good about. There are several good bariatric surgeons in Connecticut. I will tell you that I never once had the slightest doubt about my choice of Dr. Barba, for me he has been nothing less than outstanding in every respect. I did have some problems dealing with the office before Jessica arrived, but that seems to have gotten better over time. Good luck with your journey! --Steve

hi steve,thank you for your input,,i have no quams about dr.barba at all,i have several friends whom had surgery by his hands,and trust completely,i just have a little anxiety issue i guess,im very tired of being in pain,i know it takes time,and i have been researching for over a year now,and been in processes for over 6 months,just getting impatient,i doubt im the only one in those shoes too,but jessica explained it all to me today,and i feel much better now.by the way,,you look faboulious..congrats....cyndee