Info needed from any Cleveland Clinic patients.

I have my six month post op visit with the doc three Mondays from now.  The nurse told me I need to have my blood work taken at least two weeks before the appointment. The scheduler at the clinic told me she would call me about the lab work appt., but never did.

My question is:  Can any Cleveland Clinic patient tell me if they really needed an appt for six month post RNY lab work, or can you just "show up"?  Also, do I have to go downtown, or can I just show up at one of the suburban satellites?

Greetings.  I am not a patient of the Cleveland Clinic, but I have a sister and a brother who are patients of that program.  I would suggest calling the clinic back about getting your lab orders called to your local doctor or lab.  Most labs would have to have the proper orders so that they draw the necessary amount of tubes and run all of the necessary tests.  Having your blood work taken regularly is important because it will tell Dr. Schauer or one of the other doctors completing their Fellowship whether you are having any nutritional absorbtion problems.  Adjustments to your supplements might be necessary.  You can probably have the lab work done at any Cleve Clinic office - their patient record systems should be linked so that results can be viewed at any of their locations.  The program at the Cleveland Clinic is truly one of the best in the country, you are fortunate to have their care!

Congratulations on your progress!