Need your opinions, quick!

I have been going through the 3 month certification program for Aetna with my doctor, Dr. Tenewitz in Melbourne. Now, because of insurance changes at the hospital he was working at (and actually, through Brevard County as a whole) he is not performing RNY until further notice. So now, I have two choices. Either going to a surgeon that accepts Aetna (Dr. Jawad) or going out of network with Dr. Kim at Celebration. Can anybody give me any feedback on either program? I really need your help.

Dear Ted, I can whole heartedly recommend Dr Jawad. My surg was Dec 7th. I suggest you go to his web site and read all about the sugery and the testimonials from many of his pts. He has an extremely low mortality rate and he has done more than 1000 lap rnys. Good Luck! God Bless, MaryKaye

Ted, I am having surgery with Dr. Kim in Feb and he is out of network for my insurance (BCBS). But one reason I chose Dr. Kim (not only for his reputation and competent skills) but I live in Ocoee and I wanted to be close for my family and friends. I can tell you Dr. Kim's fees are $5,000 for lap RNY and the US Bariatrics program fees are $600. Since I have not had surgery yet, I can't give too much feedback on the after care program with US Bariatrics, but from what I have heard it is wonderful and the hospital also. US Bariatrics has a website - usbariatrics.com. They also have support group 2nd Wed. of every month and information sessions every Wed. There is a calendar on the website. I hope I have helped some. Best Wishes on your decision. Tammy Soon to be a Loser!

Ted, I have heard wonderful things about both Doctors. My father is part of a bariatric group in Brazil (where I had my RNY done) and his team really respects Dr. Kim's views and habilities. Had I not been able to have surgery in Brazil, I'd have opted for Dr. Kim. I hear his after care is great. But, you have two great choices, so I'd go with whoever is 'lighter' in your pocket!!!!! -Flávia

Ted, I don't know what your deductable is for your insurance but I had CIGNA and it was only 250 per day. My wife had hers done thru BCBS and hers was 300. She had hers done july of 2003 and mine was done in Nov 2004. Dr Jawad is a great Dr. He is a 11 on a scale of 1-10. Also you have to decide which is lighter on your wallet as they say. I have heard good things about Dr Kim also. So as they say the ball is in your court to decide....

i have herd nothin but good about dr jawad

Ted, don't hesitate to contact Dr. Jawad in Ocala. He's a wonderful surgeon with an excellent local reputation among his peers, voted #1 surgeon by the other docs here, and his complication rate is FAR below the national average. ORMC, where he does his surgeries, has an excellent bariatric program. The nurses are used to WLS patients, they have plenty of gowns to size, and have teaching for follow up care, dressings, and they even provide you with a hygiene "tool". Jan

I considered a lot of doctors (even out of the country) before finding Dr. Kim. He is a fabulous surgeon and person. His aftercare program is second to none. We have people from everywhere (even Miami and Jacksonville) that come to the monthly support meetings....people who had other surgeons!!! I wanted the DS and Dr. Kim is one of the few surgeons skilled enough to do this surgery too. I have heard good things about Dr. Jawad. Whoever you chose, please feel free to come to our support meetings. I promise you will not be disappointed!!! Meetings are at Celebration Health Florida Hospital every 2nd Wednesday of each month at 7:00. To get there, take I-4 to the US192 exit south towards Kissimmee. At the first light, make a right. At the end of the street, make another right. About 1/4 mile up the road you will see the hospital on your left. Best of luck!!!!