Hopkins or St.Agnes ??

I am planning to get lapband surgery. So I had my initial consult with Schweitzer at JHU and am in their process.... In understand he's been doing the lap band for years. My insurance will cover JHU's hospital charges, but not Schweitzer's fees. (3000-5000k). So I am also going this week to St. Agnes as a backup. There both the hospital and drs are in network. I think they haven't been doing lap band as long. I guess I can just put the 3-5k on my credit card if its important to go to hopkins. I am just wondering if its worth it ? Anyone have any thoughts ????

The decision is Totally up to you. however i did have my surgery at st agnes and i have no complaints what so ever. Wonderful hospital and great support. good luck in your decision making and journey Jessica 299/179/135

Run a report on the hospital http://www.healthgrades.com/consumer/index.cfm?fuseaction=mod&modtype=hospitals&modact=hospitals_landing&tab_set=hospital

I think it is great you are doing your homework and comparing both. I would not let the deciding factor be the hospital but rather the surgeon and program/follow up staff. Both are good hospitals. Meet with your surgeon of choice at St. Agnes and then compare to see who you like better. Only you can decide if the extra 5k is worth it!

I have been to both hospitals . Johns Hopkins is wretched and greedy. St Agnes is pretty good. In my opinion you should go with St. Agnes

I see you are a federal employee, or you are covered under the federal Insurance. Did you get an approval for Lap Band under this insurance?

Arnie, Like Jessica said ultimately, its up to you. I went where my insurance would let me. So far United Healthcare has been astounding. If I would have had to self pay, it would not have happened. Schweitzer was/is a great cutter. Outstanding leakage percentage. He did my DS/BPD. Everyone was great. I don't require a cuddly bedside manner from a surgeon, I just want quality production and results.But if you have a guy that has the numbers under his belt at Agnes, go for it. Best of luck to you.

Arnie, meet them both, and see who you feel besrt with. Schweitzer has done over 100 bands, and did my band in April. I am completely satisfied with both the surgery and the aftercare from him. He seems to feel like this is a partnership, which I like. I also found Bayview to be a fine place. Also, as a thought, if the band is covered by your insurace, you will not have to pay ALL of Schweitzer's fees...instead, you will have to pay just the "out of network" fee, which is about 20% of this fee, or +/- $600-$800. St. Agnes is advertising heavily, so I assume they have a full program and experienced docs there too. Good luck in yor decision. Barbara