Wish Center of Florida really has me HOT!

I completed the online seminar, a simple Power Point presentation, and I called to schedule an evaluation, just as the website stated I could. When I called and spoke with Sharon, she informed me that even though the website stated I could make an appointment, she would not allow me to until I attend a seminar at the Town And Country Hospital. I explained that I have mandatory overtime at work and I cannot get in to the seminar, and I would have to try to get there through downtown at rush hour even if I could get off work early. I also informed her that their website stated I could schedule an evaluation after completing the online seminar. She said it does say that, but they prefer you to attend a seminar in person! I also explained to Sharon that I was previously approved for ths surgery, when I lived in Texas. I am following the instructions listed on their own website: 1.Attend a FREE Seminar in person or online. 2. Make an appointment by calling a WISH Center office: 3. Attend your first consultation to learn about the WISH program and gather goals from each of the weight loss specialists. I am aware of the risks and the different types of surgery, and I am following their set procedure, but she refused to schedule an appointment for me! I am so HOT!! I will not let this drop! I need a surgeon that will accept high risk patients. I have previously had hernia repair with mesh. Thanks!

Scarlet, have you contacted Dr. Michel Murr? His main office number is 844-7394 and his offices are located at Tampa General Hospital. The next new patient orientation at the hospital is Thursday April 8 from 3-5 pm, no appointment necessary, and the support group meeting is scheduled to begin at 5:30. If that doesn't work, on Thursday April 15th from 5-6pm at the Florida Cardiovascular Institute (508 S Habana) but you have to reserve space by calling 353-1515. I don't believe Dr. Murr will see you without the orientation either, but Tampa General and Florida Cardiovascular Institute are both *much* closer to downtown. My best friend and her mother have both recently had RNY performed by him and had really positive experiences. Best of luck to you! Dianna

They are going to send me a packet of info, but I am going to call to reserve a space. I will have to take off work that day since they will not let me leave early. Thank you so very much!

I had the same experience with the Wish Center. It was an annoying process, so I went with Dr. Murr. Much easier.

Try Dr. Barry Haicken he is in Clearwater.

SHERRI! I read your profile ~ what a nightmare I hope VR comes through for you Dianna

Thanks! I am not too happy with his $800 administration fee that is not reimbursed by insurance. http://www.drhaicken.com/make.html Did he have this fee when you went to him?

I did go to an orientation seminar at Town & Country Hospital. It was informative and useful. I then made an appt for the 1st initial evaluation and it is for April 29th. I have already made arrangements to be late for my job that day. I have just learned that after the day at the center for tests and such, that it will be explained to you that $2000 will be needed up front even if your insurance will cover it. (sigh). My PCP advised me to go there, and I felt comfortable with the info I have and with Dr. Dietrick. But, I will have to call and cx because of the up front fee. I have Humana Gold PLus, a medicare HMO. I have looked them up on this site and they are not mentioned much, and I know there is a clause not to cover WLS. But darn it, I was/am ready to fight. Good luck to you... and blessings.

Excerpted from Dr. Murr's introductory paperwork: _______________________________________________________ The cost for the initial medical, phychological and dietary evaluations is approximately $700. Your insurance may pay for a portion of the medical and psychological evaluations, if the provider is contracted with your insurance company. Spectra HealthCare staff will discuss insurance coverage with you when they contact you to schedule your appointment. A payment plan and financing is also provided by Spectra HealthCare and you will receive more information about that during the New Patient Orientation. _______________________________________________________ Tina, If your insurance company denies you two or three times (I forget how many rejection letters they require) you may be eligible to have the surgery paid for through Vocational Rehabilitation. I'm navigating that system right now and haven't really begun, so keep track of my profile updates to see if this works out for me. I *HOPE* it goes smoothly - I don't have an insurance company to appeal to. Dianna

tina, i am told you will have to have half of the 2000.00 and make payments for the other half, they will work with you, please call and see what they can offer you before you cancel! i do not have to have any money for my first visit, they were very nice to me on phone , i even talked to doctor in live chat room and was able to get answers to alot of questions. they will also write you prescription for test you need done, and have your pcp rewrite them so your insurance will cover that if your pcp would be kind enough to do so, mine will! that will cut down on out of pocket cost. call and get all info straight from wishcenter- on what they can help you with finaincly. good luck, laurie