Questions about Dr. Balfour?

I am looking for anyone who is trying to have surgery with Tricare and has been told they can use Dr. Balfour. I was told I was a candidate for surgery but the surgeon at Tripler is being deployed so we can choose to be put on a waiting list there or be referred out. I would Love to chat with anyone going through this process also. I just received my approval two days ago so I haven't made up my mind yet what I'm going to do. I'm really leaning toward being referred out.... Thanks, Jamie

Hi, I don't know about Dr. Balfour, but I have an Adjustable Lap Band from Dr. Brandt Lapschies who now does surgery at Queen's Hospital. I also do not have Tricare, but I do have HMSA. If you would like to talk, call me during the week at 971-7199. Aloha, Paula Aurio

Aloha ~ I just read that Chadwick, K from Pahoa, HI had or will be having surgery w/ Dr. Balfour. Maybe, you want to email her? She's on "Surgery Announcements Scheduled" from the Main Entrance. Scroll down until you see HI "Hawaii" and then click on her name and ask her too. Good luck!!! I know you wrote this message awhile ago but maybe she can tell you the experience's she's going through. Take care ~ Pua

Thank you for your responses. I'm sorry I haven't gotten back to you. I'm kinda bummed that it's taking so long to hear back from Tricare. I'll look into the other member...

I've talked to so many new people I had forgotten I'd spoken with Kate. She said she would contact me after her recovery period. She had her surgery here on Oahu and has to recover here for a few weeks. I am very anxious to see how things went for her. She's been in my prayers.

Well I received my approval letter yesterday from Tricare and it was very shocking because I was told I would receive a phone call in about 6 weeks and then I got another shock when I found out that I was not going to Dr. Balfour like I was told. My letter said that I had been referred to Dr. Manuel Abundo and I believe he practices at Wahiawa General. I've never heard of him before and don't believe I've talked to anyone that has used him. Is anyone familiar with him or do you know anyone that might have used him. I am calling Tripler tomorrow to see what I can find out. Thanks so much to all who have responded. Jamie