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birdoffire88
on 5/17/11 12:07 pm, edited 5/17/11 12:13 pm
Topic: RE: Trying to choose a provider in Louisiana
I would love to have someone local.  I appreciate the advice, but I went to one of their seminars.  I asked questions prior to the seminar and during the seminar.  They assured me they would look into my specific issues and get back with me.  I called several times after the seminar, but they would not return my calls. 

I went to their office about 6 months ago.  I waited and the nurse came out and handed me a packet.  I tried to ask her questions, she acted as if I was bothering her.  I asked if their was someone I could ask billing and insurance questions and she said no, I would have to call my insurance company myself.  I have been to two other providers and they are more than willing to sit and discuss billing and insurance.  I counted that as strike 2.

I tried to give them a chance, but as I completed the information packet the two experiences I had with them just did sit well with me, you know that inner voice.

I have some special health issues, along with a pass history of complications during surgery, I just cannot take a chance with just anyone.  I want to feel confident that the provider truely understands my special needs and provides reassurance.

I worked with Dr. Hargroder in Gonzales for 6 monthes last year, but could not get Mailhandlers to approve the surgery, so I changed to BCBS.  Now Dr. Hargroder does not accept any insurance and wants cash $6000.  I just cannot see paying $6000 for just him, when the total surgery would only cost $1500.

Anyway, there's a lot at stake.  I just heard good feedback about the providers listed above and just wanted to get some feedback before I made a decision.

I see you used Dr. Bledsoe.  What would you say about him as a provider that may change my mind about him?  What facility did you use for the surgery?  Did they understand VSG and provide specific care?
LabRat90
on 5/16/11 1:32 am - Ball, LA
Topic: RE: Trying to choose a provider in Louisiana

Of course, I'll just confuse you more.  Dr. Samuel Bledsoe and Dr. James Parrish do weight loss surgery in Alexandria and take BCBS Federal Insurance.  They have scheduled monthly weight loss seminars for education about all the different types.  It is a really good seminar.  I went by myself the first time and then brought my husband the next month.  I really like their staff and the way they have the program set up.  Thursday, we'll have our first bariatric surgery support group meeting.  I don't know where you are located but I would choose a doctor close by because he'll be your "doctor for life"

  God made me with 2 ears and only 1 mouth for a good reason!        
LITTLEMISSYOYO
on 5/15/11 10:19 am
Topic: louisianacountrygirl
Hey gurl how r you?   I hope all is well. Hollar back let me know how you r doing.

Donna
Nancy B.
on 5/13/11 5:36 am - Bridge City, TX
VSG on 08/27/11 with
Topic: Does Dr. Shimer do VSG and cost?
Hi all!  I am wondering if Dr. Shimer in Lake Charles does the sleeve and if so, does anyone know what the self-pay price is?  Thanks!
birdoffire88
on 5/12/11 6:17 am
Topic: Trying to choose a provider in Louisiana
I'm trying to chosse a provider in Louisiana that accepts BCBS Federal insurance. I have received recommendations on the following providers. Has anyone used them and do you recommend using them? Share any experiences good or bad please.

1. Karl A. Leblanc MD MBA ABS- Baton Rouge LA USA
2. James R. Barnes MD ABS - Shreveport LA USA
3. William L. Norwood MD ABS - Shreveport LA USA
Louisianawench
on 4/30/11 1:34 pm - New Orleans, LA
VSG on 03/21/12
Topic: RE: super frustrated !!
Have PCP write a letter stating that you have been on a 1500 cal diet with no success. also have PCP mention all medical conditions that you have.
Louisianawench
" Time,indeed is a sacred gift, and each day is a little life"
crazyduck
on 4/27/11 2:51 pm - Maurepas, LA
Topic: RE: super frustrated !!
I have sleep apnea too. It all depends on ur bmi too. So don't give up!
Think positive, and all ur hopes and dreams will follow!                   
Puppylovemommy
on 4/25/11 9:59 am - LA
Topic: RE: BCBS state group
My husband's policy is also BCBS of LA (self-insured by company) and there is an exclusion.  I just don't have the time to wait anymore. We are taking out a loan and then having the house refinanced to pay for the surgery.
            
juba21133
on 4/22/11 11:32 pm - new iberia, LA
Topic: RE: MEDICAID AND MEDICARE SURGEONS LIST!
hello,
      Does anyone know if workmens comp pays for the gastric bypass.
disabled_nurse
on 4/20/11 1:56 am - Bogalusa, LA
Topic: RE: super frustrated !!
get all ur appt behind you that you need, then bug them too death............................. try to be patient, we didn't gain all of our weight overnight!!!!!!!!!!!! It is all worth the wait to have surgery.
    
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