Health Alliance/Springfield IL?

Hello, I'm looking to speak with others who have had their surgery at Memorial - particularly with Dr Hammer. I'm in the process of getting approved, and it looks like that's where I will probably be headed. I have Health Alliance HMO for insurance, and am curious what experiences others have with this. Thanks!

Helen , I have Health Alliance HMO and work for SIU Carbondale. I have just finished my surgery pre evualuation with Washington Universit Weight mgt in St. Louis. My only suggestion with Health Alliance is Make sure your primary Dr. Sends in the appropriate letter of medical necessity and be prepaired for the labs and test required. HA approved me the first try and I will be scheduled for surgery soon. Call them and ask if you run into a problem, their help center is great.

I didn't know Dr. Hammer did the Lapband. I am from Springfield and I had to go to Jacksonville (Dr. Duane Tull) to have mine done. I had no problems and he was/is a great doctor! He recently moved his practice from Jacksonville to Clinton, IL. He is now with the Illinois Bariatric Center. If things do not work out with Dr. Hammer, you might want to look into IBC. Good luck!