Time frame for the Cleveland Clinic

I had my surgery in May of 2007.  Dr. Chand was my surgeon, and I thought he was terrific.  I had lap band surgery.  I have no complaints with Dr. Chand - but I was not overly impressed with the Clinic.  I mean, I have dealt with the Clinic on other health issues - and was always totally impressed and satisfied - but the bariatric unit needs some improvements.  I did have to wait a long time at first - but that has improved some.  My recovery in hospital was not impressive - the staff was not overly helpful, no one offered to help me get up and walk - I waited forever to be discharged and no one was there to answer my questions I had for post-op.  Everyone kept treating me like I had had RNY - and I had not.  In fact the post op instructions I did get were for those with RNY.  And the worst is their business manager who gets you approved.  She NEVER calls back - I have had billing issues - insurance issues - and call and call - and she NEVER calls back.  In fact, I waited 4 months for insurance approval - finally called my insurance company and asked what the heck?? and they said they had never received any paperwork from the Clinic.  Seems it was misplaced by the business manager, Debra Cash.  The nurse has not been overly helpful when I have had questions or problems either.  So, all in all, I think the Clinic is one of the best at what they do in all other areas - but I think their bariatric floor needs some improvement.  If I know the Clinic - they are working on it - because I can't believe they would want something to be a part of them that isn't "the best".  All in all - I wouldn't go anywhere else - because if something bad were to happen - I would be in the best place in the world to be taken care of.  I highly recommend Dr. Chand - I just hope the Clinic works out the kinks!  Oh yeah - my wait period - it would only have been 3 or 4 months - if my paperwork had been turned in on time... they do make you go through a bunch of testing prior.  Good Luck - it is worth it!  Anne