Calling all Bayview Patients

Today my work had a meeting. They are chaning our insurance to Blue Cross/Blue Shield. I look up the providers and Dr Sweitzer is not there. I saw Kim Steel and Dr Magnuson. I was wondering if anyone had any input on these two doctors. I really had my heart set on Dr Sweitzer doing my surgery, but now looks like that is not going to happen. Please someone help me. I would look at other Dr at other hospitals, but already have realtionship with Nut at Hopkins Weight Loss Management and she is going to be my Nut after surgery also. Any advice would be greatly appreicated.

Thanks,
Kellie

I have BC/BS, and also use Dr. Schweitzer.  Whle Schweitzer is not a participating doctor to BC/BS, I am still using him. I'll pay his surgical fees (+/- about $5,500) myself, and then submit the receipts to BC/BS for reimbursement. So, even though I do have to shell out the money initially, I will be paid back for it.  And BC/BS will cover the hospital stay and all other associated fees.....just not Dr. Schweitzer's fees directly.

Hi Kellie - Jeez, I'm sorry, I can imagine how frustrated you are.  However, did you call Dr. S's office?  Might be worth a phone call.  If not, several of my friends have had surgery with Dr. Magnuson, and they ALL spoke highly of him, so I think you'd be in good hands. Hugs, Tia

Hi Kellie  I have a friend that went to Dr Mangnuson and thought he was great.  Good luck on what you decide to do. Barb

Hey there, I just wanted to comment on YouGlowGirl's response.  I have BC/BS and was looking to Dr. S to be my surgeon.  Of course, he doesn't take BC/BS and I called the insurance company to find out what they will cover, thinking they cover 80% of his fees. I found out that yes they cover the hospital stay and anesthesiologist (sp?) but they only cover what they consider the surgery costs, not 80% of his fees.  That came to about $1800.  So, I switched to Dr. Mo. Hope this is helpful. One question, can you have your surgery before your employer switches insurance providers??  Good Luck.  C

Thanks for the clarification, MM.  I'll be sure to verify my personal financial output PRIOR to my surgery.   I can't easily absorb thousands of dollars in uncovered emdical expenses. Again, thanks!

I could not be that lucky to do surgery before the switch. The switch is 6/1/08 and I have not even submited to the insurance company and I still have 2 months to go with the diet. All I can say is that is going to work out the way that it is meant to.

You will be in wonderful hands with Dr. Magnuson.  He did my surgery in Sept. 2007.  He is wonderful.  I have had no problems what so ever.  No dumping, throwing up no hair loss.  I did as he told me.  I woke with no pain after the operation.  To this day I have had no pain what so ever.  I am so blessed and he is wonderful.  If you use him I am sure you will be totally satisified.  Valerie and Pat his assistants are so nice and caring. good luck....and let me know how you do

i will chime in about dr. steele. she was my surgeon. i only have highest praise for her. she really really cares about her patients. she makes sure you get the right surgery for your situation. and she is a wonderful surgeon. i had a minor complication at night when i was in the hosp and she talked to me on the phone at 1am. it was very nice of her. made me feel better. ended up being nothing. let me know if you have questions.

Hey there Kellie!  I had Dr. Magnuson and had BCBS.  He is an amazing surgeon, has a wonderful bedside manner and really cares about his patients.  He has specific standards for his procedures that are a good bit above what is required and what many other surgeons in other locations consider "good enough".  BCBS had no qualms whatsoever with his additional requirements for my care and it truly made the difference in my recovery.  His office manager, Valerie is always ready to help with any questions you may have.  I wish every doctor's office had a Valerie quite honestly.  :)  If you have any specific questions, I'll be glad to answer them for you.