Maryland Nutritionist

Hi all,

Can anyone recommend a nutritionist/dietition who is knowledgable about post op patients. I had my surgery in Salisbury, but now live in Baltimore and would love to find a nutritionist in the Baltimore area. I have been stuck at my weight for a while and just need some additional help getting to my FINAL GOAL! :-) Also, a plus is a nutritionist who accepts BlueCross/BlueShields. Thanks so much for any references! 

Jess in MD 

Hi Jess,

I actually went to see a nutritionist from my OBGYN office several years ago while I was pregnant and her name was Arlene Swantko and I raved about how much I liked her then. Then several years later (obviously after the birth of my lil girl...lol) I decided to have the surgery and I keep hearing people mentioning her name on the boards. I didnt even know that she worked with WLS patients too, but even several years before I really liked her. At that time she was very realistic and very knowledeable and helpful to me. I honestly am not sure what surgeon she works with or what office she works out of but I believe its in the baltimore area somewhere. Hopefully someone will chime in that has been to Arlene and give you some info on her.

Good afternoon Jess.  Arlene works for Dr. Averbach's office in Catonsville.  She is really nice and will give you all the information you need about anything.  But....  When I had to go see her for the consult, she didn't outright accept the insurance.  I had to pay out of pocket.  Give the office a call and see what she has to say.  It's worth a shot.

Thank you for yor responses. I will definitely look her up. Thanks a million! 

I can second in on Arlene and her helpfulness!  She is awesome.  However she does not bill your insurance...  She will do all she can to make sure you have what you need to get reimbursed by your insurance though!

For WLS patients with Dr. Averbaugh she charges $150 for a the consult, and then will answer questions and do follow up vists after free...

HTH.

Thanks so much. I'm wondering what the cost for me would be since I'm not a patient of Dr. Averbaugh. I'd just be coming "independently". I found a number though and left a message so we'll see. Thanks again!

Hi there Jess
                          I have BCBS insurance too. I see Mary Beth Sodus who is through University of Maryland in Baltimore and works for Dr Mark Kligman. If you want me info email me and I can give you her email addy. Good luck. ;o)

Yes, I would love her email information. Thanks so much!

Jess

Ok honey I will email it now ;o)

Okay I emailed it to ya. If you dont hear back from her she is hosting a support group meeting this Wednesday at Baltimore Washington Medical (North Arundel) in the Tate building. Its from 7pm-8:30pm and the topic is preventing relapse after WLS. They will also discuss Calcium and new Vit D research. I will put directions below because its FREE  for ANYONE to attend. ;o)

From Baltimore take Baltimore Beltway 695 to exit 4-Route 97 South to Route 100 East
to Oakwood Road (Exit 15) Turn right onto Oakwood and a quick right on Hospital Drive. BWMC
is located 100 yards on your left. Go to the lower level.
301 Hospital Drive Glen Burnie Maryland 21061