Dr. Coster's presurgical workup

Hi all. I'm new to the board and just recently made the decision to tally forth with surgery. I was hoping to plan my surgery for April 2004 with Dr. Coster in Grinnell, but when I called for the initial consulation date, I found out he is booked into May already. I'm convinced I want him to do my surgery, so I'll wait (patiently??). My Question.. does anyone know how many visits Dr. Coster requires before surgery? How about the presurgical workup - EKG's, blood work, etc. I'm trying to get a feel when I can plan to have the surgery (always planning...). I have BC/BS Blue Access, and I think they approve fairly quickly. Thanks to all.. You are an inspiration! Vicki

Vicki I had Eibes in Grinnell, he is Excellent as well, and actually Coster had to release me from the hospital, so I kinda had him in the hospital after surgery, cuz Eibes was having foot surgery himself the day after my surgery, lol. As far as Grinnell, youhave your initial consultation. Then I believe you have maybe one more appt. The only other one you have is a regular physical with your regular doc, a few weeks ahead of the surgery, and within a week before surgery, youhave an appt at the hospital, EKG, blood work and chest xray. Thats it. BC/BS did approve me within 2-3 weeks I believe, and Grinnell called the same day to set up the appt for surgery. Thats all I can tell you, so good luck to you Judi D. email me if you have more ?'s... 5/15, open RNY from 360 to 240 now yippee!

Dr. Coster did my surgery 2 1/2 years ago and if I recall, other than the intitial consult, I only went one other time. Vicki VBG 6-97 364/212 RNY 6-01 295/183/175 panni/hernia 11/02