Anyone go the private toute?

Hello all,

I was wondering if anyone here has gone through a private surgeon for gastric bypass instead of through OHIP? I have been looking at Dr. Al-Kassem in Simcoe, but was hoping someone may have some experience with him? Or perhaps a different ptivate surgeon?

I don't have any feedback as I am going through OHIP,  but just curious as to what is influencing your decision to go the private route? :)

Hi there!  I am thinking of going the private route because I am fortunate enough to have the finances to, and my job (I am a nurse at our rural acute care hospital) does not have a lot of flexibility when it comes to taking multiple leaves for appointments. I can certainly take the time off, plus take time for some appointments, but not for a full year. Plus, and let's be honest, I don't think my health can withstand taking a full year to have the procedure done. 

My experience is through Ohip but wanted to tell you it might not take you a year.

I went to the orientation class (which is your first appointment in the clinic) mid June and I had surgery on January 30th of this year. If you are healthy with no medical issue's like diabetes etc, you can easily be fast tracked which I believe I was. I did not hear from the clini****il mid November at which time I started with the appointments. I think I had 4-5 between the various nurses, social worker and internist. That was it other than pre-opp. Viola. It was done!!

Best wishes on whichever route you take.

There is a reason it takes time. There do a lot of screening that is for medical and psychological health. They want to make sure you can and will comply once you have the surgery.

Be sure there is a good follow-up system with the self pay. If you do it outside the country none of the centres will see you for follow-up. The funded program follows you for 5 years. I personally have found there help over this period invaluable.

Thank you Patm for your insight.  There is follow up for one year following surgery with psychologist and dietician, as well as with the doctor.  I would be doing it here in Ontario at the Norfolk General Hospital.  

I will keep researching, and learning from reading here, as well as talking to my own family doctor.  Lots of amazing advice and support here!

It may not take the full year, as another poster said.  My surgery is next week and my orientation was July 25th, 2016 - 7 months.  It is a lot of appointments but it is really worth it.  I feel safe with this program - there are so many surgeons, so much experience and so much success.  If you go the private route, I would just really check the stats, follow up and success.  Good luck which ever way you choose.