Newbie

Well... sort of.  LOL About four years ago I went through the process in Grinell.  The office staff was wonderful!  The problem was with my insurance (it sucked at that time!!).  I couldn't have the surgery.  Now I have BC/BS of Ia.  I know that they cover the procedure, so I'm thinking about going for it again.   I live in West Burlington, and my family is all in this area.  I'm not worried about being in the hospital and not having anyone there with me, hubby will need to be here with the kiddos anyway.  hehe SOOO... my question is this... where should I go??  I have called Trinity in the QC and they didn't answer the phones today, and never called me back.  Not sure what's up with that, I wouldn't think they'd close for the whole week for the holiday.  ??? Anyway... experiences with Trinity, and suggestions for other places are welcome (UofI, Grinnell, etc).

I went to U of I.  My first appointment was August 10th and I had surgery October 16th.  If you want more info about U of I,  send me a PM.  I'd love to talk with you.   Shannon

Hi Melissa,

I just started my journey.  I have my consult in January since I had to switch insurances to cover the surgery.  I also started my 6 month supervised diet.  Which I could kick myself for not starting sooner.  I live in Mt Pleasant and I picked Dr Glas**** in Cedar Falls.  I was impressed with his seminar/training and their support.  It is only a litte further drive than Grinnell.  I had a hard time finding any info on U of I so I pursued Cedar Falls. 

Go to U of I's web site.  Everything is right there. http://www.uihealthcare.com/depts/med/surgery/weightloss/ser vices.html

I went to Fort Dodge for a few reasons.   1.  It was closer 2.  Dr. VerSteeg has a ZERO mortatliy rate.  (most in Iowa do though) 3.  He uses the Anvil stapler to staple the pouch to the intestine.  Less than 5% stricture rate. 4.  He only does Lap proceedures.  Unless he has to open you up. Also all the rooms at the hospital where he performs the surgery are private.

I definitely recommend Dr. Coster at Grinnell!!!  He's wonderful! Plus the support system for before and after is great.  So many support groups, its awesome!   Good luck in your journey! Jillybean

I have a similar story as yours.. I started the process back in 1999 (!!!!) but because of insurance and then lack thereof due to self employment, I wasn't able to have surgery until just this August.  I have BCBS of Iowa as well and they were absolutely fabulous to work with. You have a lot of great choices as there are a lot of great surgeons in Iowa.  I had mine done in Cedar Falls, which is definitely a bit away from Burlington.  Iowa City or Davenport would be closer. I definitely recommend checking out a couple different surgeons if you're going to have to travel regardless.  I checked out three different places before deciding on Cedar Falls.  It's all about what you feel the most comfortable with.