Dr. Hargroder?

[Also posted on the VSG forum]

Hi everyone,

I'm a successful lap band patient planning on a revision to VSG after a slip and regain of about half of my previously lost weight. I have Fed BCBS and was denied because the local WA BCBS that administers pre-certs can't be convinced that Fed covers VSG and because the local doc submitted it as two separate surgeries. I'd previously decided to move ahead with either Cirangle or Aceves. But Cindy in Dr. Hargroder's office tells me that they've had no problem getting Fed BCBS coverage for revision and they're willing to fight for me. Dr. Cirangle's office was willing to help but they've never had success with Fed BCBS whereas Dr. Hargroder's office has never had a denial. 

Seems like Hargroder has good revision and VSG experience. My only concern about VSG is that I've run across a few people that say they have less restriction with VSG than they had with the band - that scares me. I know Dr. Hargroder does a 34f boughie but that seems to be in the good 32-34 range that statistics show work well.

So... I guess what I'm wondering is what's the assessment of Dr. Hargroder? Did you use him or consider him for your surgery? Any input appreciated!

Thanks,
Britt

I am also revising from the Lap Band to the Sleeve. I don't have any data on band-to-sleeve revisions, but I have observed that all revisions had a slower weight loss and less restrictive aid than in their first procedure.

My procedure is approved and in two days. I will be glad to share my experiences in coming weeks.

Wishing you well,
Frances

Hi I had the vsg on Dec 3 with Dr hargroder. Everything went great! I have lost 88 lbs so far and I feel lijke a new person. My only regret is that I waited so long to do it. He is a great doc with a good track record . I researched a lot of docs and I was a cash pay patient and he was my choice. Dont wait go for it!! If you have any more questions, I would be happy to help. Take care, Joan

Thanks, Joan. Now I'm just crossing my fingers that I'll get a call from Cindy saying she worked her insurance magic. All the feedback on Dr. Hargroder has been great. I'm sure hoping this will work out!

Britt

Cindy is the greatest!  So is Dr. Hargroder.  I had RNY November 18, 2008 and Cindy was so wonderful.  My insurance required me to do a 6 month thing with my GP, a nutrionist and a health plex before they would approve it and she was there for me the whole time.  No matter how many questions I had she was always willing to talk to me with the sweetest tone. .  I did not see Dr. Hargroder too much but I had no problems with the surgery and like the other poster said he has a great track record.  We dug as hard as we could to make sure because my family was so nervous about the surgery.  Holly his practioner is sweet also.

Good Luck...I hope everything works out with your insurance.

Terri