Physician recommendations

Okay, I have an appt to see an internist this next week in my neck of the woods. I am finally going to get this ball rolling. I have UHC insurance. I have the following brief questions: 1. Should I contact my insurance to see if I am covered first or let that process go through the doctor's offices? 2. I guess I am the closest to Richmond although Newport News/Hampton Road is just as far. I have read alot about different doctors in the area. a. Are there any that I should definitely stay away from (subtlety). b. Who are your favorite surgeons. c. Even more important, favorite surgeons with the best support/follow-up team/outpatient support groups? Thanks for all your help! Leigh

P.S. I am going for Lap Band Leigh

I had gastric bypass with Dr. Martin. She is excellent and does many lap band surgeries also. She is in a practice with several doctors that do great work with weigh loss surgeries. I highly recommend them at Commonwealth Surgeons. Please feel free to email me directly if you'd like more information. They are also terrific with handling all of your insurance issues. Best wishes, Wanda

Hi Leigh, I also recommend Dr. A. Elizabeth Martin. She performed my gastric bypass via laporscopically, and I was a tough one with multiple abdominal surgeries prior. My daughter is now going to Dr. Martin for lap band. Several members of the support groups at St. Mary's are Dr. Martin patients and everyone speaks highly of her. Also, there is a newly formed Lap Band support group at St. Mary's hospital in Richmond which meets this Monday from 7-8:30 pm. I guess it's the 3rd Monday of each month. Good luck! Tammy G

Cynthia I am having my surgery done by Dr. Maher at MCV in Richmond. There is also another doctor there Dr. Kellum. I am told that they are the best. I have Medicare and they will only pay if you go to a "CENTER OF EXCELLENCE" and this hospital is. MCV stand for Medical Collage Of Virginia. Some people know it a UVAMCV but it is all the same. When I called medicare to see what hospitals that they covered they suggested that I go to MCV. If you look on my profile you will be able to go to the site of MCV. I hope this helps. I can't tell you where to go, all I can do is give you information.