GBMC Doctor Choice

Hi Everyone, I've just signed up so this is my first post. What a great site. I just scheduled my surgery at GBMC and it is with Dr. Moen, but I'm a little concerned. I first met with Dr. von Reuden (the main surgeon there), but I really felt like we didn't click--he just seemed so cold to me. I even called to ask him a few questions about the pre-op tests, and I did not like his demeanor. I was going to look elsewhere, but Dr. Moen had spent a good bit of time talking with me after the initial presentation, so I decided to meet with him. I really like hime a lot. I can't explain my different reactions to the doctors--it was just like this gut level (pardon the pun) instinct I felt about what is best for me. Well, now I am worried that this may be a poor choice since it seems like Dr. von Reuden has done soooo many more surgeries than Dr. M. I can't find ANY patients of his on this forum. Does anyone have any advice? Thanks!

Stacey - I know Dr. Moen is new to DVR's (as we call him) practice, so, unfortunately, I can't give you any insight on him. However, DVR did my surgery in August of last year and I just love him. My initial consult with him was in March of 2005, and like you, I was kind of taken aback by his demeanor initially. Not sure if it was shyness or just his personality, but the more I learned about him, the more confident I felt. He truly is a wonderful doctor, and his staff is great. He is very caring, which you'll find as you have more interaction with him. Also, he has a great, dry wit about him, and I have a good sense of humor myself, so we banter back and forth. More importantly, he is so knowledgeable, so IMHO, you can take heart in the fact that he brought Dr. Moen into his practice. I believe that if DVR didn't implicitly trust Dr. Moen, he would not partner with him. Having said all that, go with your gut. If you don't feel completely comfortable with ANY doctor, keep searching. You'll find one whom you trust and whose experience will make you comfortable. Don't do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable. This whole experience can be scary, from the initial consult to your post-op recovery, but it truly will be the best decision you've ever made! BTW, if you haven't attended a support group meeting, there's one on 5/24 at 7 p.m., I'll be there if you'd like to join us! Good luck and take care, Teresa - lap rny 8/2/05 - 370/236/170

Hi Hon and welcome! I just saw DVR on Monday for my first consult. He has a very quiet personallity but he is really nice. His staff are the BEST!! They get things done. The new financial Coordinator will make stuff happen! I love her she has helped me with everything so far. Look on his forum and his patient list. There are a bunch on here. I love his office and staff. The best thing that I like too is that all the required testing that they want you to get done can all be done at Gbmc! I love the convenience factor. But like I always tell everyone "Go with your Gut"! Please message me if you need anything at all and again welcome!! rachel

Oh also go back a page to see other peoples responce to my question about GBMC's Program there are two!

Thanks everyone for your responses. I've done some more research and Dr. Moen has actually performed over 100 of the surgeries and completed 2 major internships. I think I am going to stick with my intial instinct and have him as my surgeon. I am very nervous about the surgery in general. I started reading all of the horror stories and I don't know if that was such a good idea. I have an 8 year old daughter and I just keep thinking about what if something happens to me, but on the otehr hand, my quality of life is so limited if I don't have the surgery. Still and all, I am very excited and hopeful. I will stay in touch and I do plan to attend the support group on 5/24. Thanks again, Stacey

Hi hon, I can't tell you anything about that particular doctor, but I have investigated Dr. Gandsas and Dr. Li from Sinai Hospital. I'm not sure exactly how far away from GBMC, but I can tell you that these doctors have excellent statistics and matching personalities. You can click on him off of my page if you want to look at some of the testimonials. I haven't found a real complaint on here or from any patients in person yet. The only thing that I hear is sometimes there is a wait in the waiting room at your appointments, but that is because they are so in demand. Take care! You might want to try the seminar first, June 5th is one about the Lap Band. They have them the 1st Monday of every month. Take Care! ~*Debbie*~