For Barry Greene's patients: what can I expect at the 4 hour consultation?
Leesa
on 6/16/06 10:51 am - MD
on 6/16/06 10:51 am - MD
Elizabeth,
It's been since March 2003 that I had my initial consult (my surgery was July 25, 2003), so things might have changed a little bit. The next support group meeting isn't until July 10, so it's not as if you can ask someone from Dr. Greene's office before that time.
When I had my initial consult, one of Dr. Greene's assistants (his staff has changed, so I don't know whether it's Laura Lamotte or Peter Womack) took the small group of first time consults into a room, and reviewed and answered questions from the original presentation you sat through at the larger support group meeting you attended. I don't know whether Dr. Greene will have you meet w/the new nutritionist working with his office, Mandy (who, I believe, is affiliated w/Shady Grove Adventist Hospital, where Dr. Greene does his surgery), or whether you will need to schedule an appointment to meet with her at a later date.
There will be some down/waiting time, either in the main patient waiting room and/or in the examination room. Basically, Dr. Greene and Peter Womack (Dr. Greene's physician's assistant) meet, individually, with each new patient to evaluate his/her specific situation. That's going to take time, and that's why you were told you might be there up to 4 hours. If you already have documentation from your primary care physician regarding history of supervised weight loss efforts, or the results of any of the preliminary medical tests outlined in the packet you were given, have that with you. Also, in the event you've previously been diagnosed w/sleep apnea and are using a CPAP machine, bring that documentation with you for Dr. Greene's file.
Often, there are post-op patients waiting to meet w/Dr. Greene, and this is a great opportunity to strike up a conversation with them and learn more about their personal experiences. (I've got my 3-yr. anniversary appointment on July 27.) I had that opportunity with some very generous individuals when I had my first consult meeting, with a number of them proudly lifting up their shirts to show me the little incisions from the surgery and how well they were disappearing. In any event, bring some reading material and, if you do any hand-work such as knitting, crocheting, or embroidery, it will help to pass the time. A cold bottle of water will help, too.
Best of luck to you, and please say "hi" to me at the next support group meeting. (I'm the person that gets the meetings started.)
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