More Questions for Bauman patients

O.k. I am in the process of trying to have revision surgery with Dr. Bauman.  I am having the worst time with that nutritionist.  It takes so long to get an appointment with her.  Additionally, I have corresponded with another patient of Dr. Bauman who stated that the nutritionist treated her like she was bothering her and wasting her time.  Has anyone else had problems with the nutritionist?  My other question is how much money out of pocket did you have to pay prior to your surgery date?  I was told that the hospital and Dr. Bauman require that you pay the difference of what the insurance company want pay?

Hi Darnell I am a patient of Dr. Bauman.  I have met with the NUT once, but she seemed very helpful, I am scheduled for my 2 week post op.  I had to pay all of my out of pocket expenses before surgery to Dr. and the hospital.  So my out of pocket was about 5500.00, because I am employed by a little office, and our deductible is higher than larger companies.  The only thing that I did not agree with is the hospital doesn't go by the allowable charges that your insurance pays, so I am expecting a refund for the hospital.  I am waiting for my EOB's so I can get some money back.  I am very pleased with Dr Bauman and his office staff...

Thanks for answering my question.  I am a little nervous because I could not possibly come up with $5,500.    Do you think we are required to pay this money upfront because it is weight loss surgery?  Because I am thinking what if I had another surgical procedure such as gallbladder or hernia would they still ask for that money even if I didn't have it and I needed this surgery? 

I think so!!  She stated that since this is an elective surgery, but I informed her that this is not elective, because my insurance is paying for it, so if the insurance is going to pay it is not ELECTIVE!!!  Therefore this is deemed to be a procedure that I need to live a happy full life without high blood pressure,and other medical problems that can occur with me being overweight.  Also, she said that they got burned by patients that did not pay, so I guess I can see their point.  Are you covered by your insurance?

Yes, I am covered by my insurance.  I have federal blue cross blue shield.

The hospital you have to pay in cash or credit card. They do not let you write a check or make payments and has to be paid before they will do your surgery.  Which nut are you speaking of Diane or Ruth?  I have had a few problems with their office staff and making appointments with the wrong doctor and not updating my personal information. Then can't figure out why they can't contact you.

I am dealing with Diane.  Do you mind telling me how much you had to pay the hospital?  I'm trying to make sure I save money.

I can assure you of one thing ... if you let Dr. Bauman himself know that you're having issues with his staff, or Dr. Pirrello that you're having issues ... it will be handled.   I have never had any issues with the nutritionist there.  I have always had my appointments with Diane.   I had to pay his office $250 for the initial consult, $100 for the first nutrition visit, and I had to pay the hospital $1500 out of pocket the week prior to surgery.  None of that was covered by insurance.  The $1500 had to do with my insurance and was the estimate of what I was going to be required to pay after they paid their portion.  Didn't have anything to do with the type of surgery, really. 

Heck ... I just posted this and it disappeared.  lol  Please excuse a double post if it comes through twice.  I hope I remember everything that I said.  It was something like this! If you're having a problem with Dr. Bauman or Dr. Pirrello's staff, THEY will handle it personally if you let them know.  Trust me on that one!  I have never had any problems with the nutritionist, and I only see Diane.  I've never had much trouble getting an appointment.   As for out of pocket, I paid $250 for the initial consult fee with Dr. Bauman and $100 for the initial consult with Diane.  Then I had to pay the hospital $1500 out of pocket the week before my surgery.  It didn't matter what type of surgery I was having, it was just the portion of my estimated balance of what insurance was going to pay the hospital.   I'm gonna try to submit this again and see if it goes through this time! 

I just had revision surgery with Dr. Bauman's office.  I have never had any problems with the NUT's office.  Just the opposite, the are always very helpful.  If you are having problems with appointments or staff, e-mail Diane.  That is the best way to reach her.  I don't know if your revision is elective or necessary but my insurance paid 100% because my lapband had slipped and had to be removed.  I went with RNY the second time around. Sorry you are having issues with his staff.  Don't give up yet. Barbara