Questions about Surgeons
I used Dr. Hart which works out of the same office with Dr. Johnson but he's the medical director there with a lot more experience. My insurance paid for it and the only out of pocket cost I remember was meeting with the nutritionist and any co-pays. I also had the sleeve. I think Dr. Johnson does a lot of bypass surgeries from what I hear at group. I never used protein shots I was only allowed shakes by bariatric advantage after surgery. Dr. Hart was amazing but I don't know much about Dr. Johnson other than people wanted him cause he was young and "hot" but that is NO reason to pick a doctor...I prefer experience and an older doctor.
I also used Dr Hart and have loved it so far. I was self-pay because my insurance covers zilch, so I can't speak to that part except to state that my hubby had RNY with Dr Champion (retired) three years ago and his surgery was more expensive but it covered more of the meetings so it probably came out pretty even.
I had my surgery almost 4 weeks ago. I have had to pay for several appointments, but everyone knew I was self pay in the office so I never considered them asking for insurance. I would double check and be sure that they really said that they don't file insurance for those appointments because that does seem odd. I paid for mine with my HSA card. Also, Dr Hart's staff is all awesome! These people have been super helpful for me and always went the extra mile to find me an answer when I had one.
Not only do I personally like Dr Hart, even though he is very busy, I have NEVER felt rushed when meeting with him. While I was thinking, trying to figure out if there were any more questions, he simply sat and smiled and gave me time to think. Even right before my surgery, he came by where they were prepping me and asked if I had any concerns or questions before we got started.
Pam (RNY: 11/20/2013)
The problem with Macik was everything he said was completely against anything ever taught about nutrition - anywhere. To be told to never eat a fruit or vegetable again and that they are not necessary components of a diet is ludicrous, as is the belief that supplements are equivalent to the nutrition derived from whole foods. And YES, I REALLY care about personality - when it is so extreme and condescending to be unable to communicate with him. Also, Macik, Johnson and Hart do not complete the surgery I am seeking out. I am glad you had a great experience, I am hoping for a great experience from my surgeon too!
Dr Hart did my RNY (robotic) Nov 5th. It is worth the drive. I live outside of Griffin, yes it is a hr 45 min drive. His experience mattered to me. Yes, there are some things that are additional expenses. (Initial visit with him, and dietician, as well as post op kit of shakes and vit, oh and to have them fill out a form for leave compensation). I did the online seminar, drove up for my initial consultation, met with Tracy the dietician. I left the office with a list of test that had to be performed. Once I completed the items I called and scheduled my surgery date. Dr Hart isn't known for being warm and fuzzy, but he is a excellent surgeon. I had a hernia repair at the same time. I am shocked at how quickly I felt recovered from surgery. I had a post op visit 10 days post op, and a scheduled apt with Tracy at 6 weeks and with Dr Hart at 3 months. If he doesn't perform the surgery you are interested in I suspect you are considering a DS. BTW if you find a support group on the south side will you let me know. I will drive up to Johns creek once a month, but would like to have some place closer. I am going to look into S Regional and see about attending one there, Keep researching, and you will find just the right person for you. Best of wishes.
barb.k
