OTTAWA - Hi all! I'm looking for some info and experience from others who have have been sent over to the BMI Clinic in Ottawa, instead of the WMC. I just finished my orientation today, and have my next appointment booked, which is meeting with Dr. Freedhoff in a couple of weeks.

During the presentation, she told us surgery happens within 4-8 months. She explained all of the steps, and the many appointments following up to the surgery. I've been able to skip a couple of steps (I.e. sleep test, blood work) because I had previously done this.

Even though the surgery is done at TOH, it seems like the BMI Clinic moves a lot quicker? I'm excited, but I also want to be prepared

Hi Shybee,

I have not heard of this, here in Ottawa. Weird...I have my Nurse appointment coming up on Aug 24 at the TOH WM clinic. I did not know BMI is involved in weight loss surgery as well. Best of luck in your journey!

Yes, I read somewhere that about 20% of patients are sent over to the BMI Clinic. I'm a lot closer to Civic, so I'm not sure what it is based on.

Thank you, and good luck to you as well!

I'm with BMI and I couldn't be happier. From a pure logistic point of view, parking is waaaay easier. ;) But the people there are great, and I find they really root for you. My timeline was about 6 months. They won't send you to surgery unprepared!

When I went for orientation I could tell it was a very friendly environment. I am very excited to continue my journey with them. So nice to hear that you have a positive experience

Hi

I am going through the BMI Clinic and am quite happy with results. I went through all of the pre-op appointments, had my surgery and am now going through the follow-up appointments. The thing I love the most is that at any time I can call up the clinic with questions, and they either have an answer right away or get me the answer quickly. The other great thing is that they have exercise classes, including yoga, that are included in the program. Why buy a gym pass when you can get it for free.

The staff at the Clinic are helpful, encouraging and quite knowledgeable and because they foster community, I have met a few people going through the procedure and use them as support.

Good luck, and maybe I'll see you there.

We had our surgery on the same day!

And how are you making out?

I'm doing well! How about you? Was Dr. K your surgeon as well?

She was, what a nice doctor.