Dr. Schirmer and Anthem

yibbett
on 1/25/09 7:46 pm
I have a couple of questions here. I started this process back in 2006 and changed jobs and had to give it up because of insurance I had Cigna. My question is I have an appt. with Dr. Schirmer again this Thursday and was wondering does anyone know about his requirements for before the surgery? I am really worried about the blood gas test. I have a phobia of needles and can handle it all but not sure how I will handle this one test. Also, has anyone ever had problems with anthem? Everything I read says they are the best but I am worried. I want this so bad!

Thanks
Tammy
(deactivated member)
on 1/25/09 11:24 pm - Fredericksburg, VA
RNY on 02/22/06 with
Please don't worry about the blood gas test - I too was needle phobic and really it is just another blood test - no more no less - it did not seem like any other to me  - so relax and don't stress too much. Don't tense up before the test and fdrink as much fluid as you can before you go for the testing because the more you drink the more your veins are open - when you are dehydrated it is hard for them to get blood.... 

Good luck!

Jackie
Tam
on 1/25/09 11:31 pm - Richmond, VA
Anthem is awesome...that is where I work.  It all depends on what type of policy you have and if there is a rider for the surgery or not.  I am not sure about Dr. Schirmer but I here he is top notch.  I have never met him but I do personally know some of his patients.  As for the ABG test...honestly it hurts like no other...but is quick and like Jackie said...drink plenty of fluids before and after.  It will make it easier.  I am not a needel phocic but I am not happy with them!

Tammy C

down 260+ pounds and loving life more than ever!!!
proud  mom to Kara 12-08-1994 and our newest addition Claire Makenna born 03-26-09 weighing 6 lbs 13 ounces and 19.25 inches long and very healthy.  happily dating...i honestly never knew it could be this good!  there is that special Guy for everyone out there...either you already have him or you will find him when He is ready for it! 

open RNY 04-25-2005

Life could not get any better than this!

prissy25
on 1/26/09 2:04 am - Barboursville, VA
Tammy I have a total needle phobia and when they come out I freak!!!! But Ill tell ya now that the blood gas is nothing to worry about it is not as bad as everyone tells you.  Its over before you know it. So dont worry about it. Good luck. And keep me posted  Dr Schirmer was my surgeon and Im here in Charlottesville and if I can be of any help please let me know. I have a Support group here once a month and we would love to have you to join us we are the FFP's and meet on the 4th Sat. of each month just shoot me a email. 
 VAFFPsLogo.jpg FFP's picture by in2lights
OH Support Group Leader - [email protected]
Believing in yourself makes it so much easier in supporting those who need your friendship, love, and support,so Believe in yourself First.
Charlottesville, Virginia VA FFP's Meet's every 4th Sat.

    
callinwildfire
on 1/26/09 12:14 pm - Levels, WV
Hi,Dr.S. was my surgeon as well and he is wonderful and caring. If you think you are going to have a problem with the pain during the ABG test, just ask the tech to numb your arm beforehand and you won't feel a thing. That's what I did, and it was a piece of cake. I had worried myself sick about it because of everyone posting about how bad it was and that was a piece of advice given to me that I will now pass on to you and wish you well.Pam
Waverly Adcock
on 1/27/09 4:00 pm - Staunton, VA
I'm a patient of Dr. Schirmer and I had my blood gases done back in December.  They will send you up one floor to the blood gas clinic and draw them up there.  When I had it done the gentleman who did it was very nice and attentive.  I'm a needle chicken as well and he made everything simple and painless as possible.  When I felt a little flushed he brought me a cup of water to refresh me.  I'll be up there Thursday afternoon for my first follow up since my surgery.  If you need anything, let me know.  I had my lap-band done on Dec. 29th and I'm down around 30 lbs. and 76 lbs. since July.  I hope you have a good visit. 
Your Humble Servant,
Waverly B. Adcock
"You may be whatever you resolve to be."  -Stonewall Jackson

Tam
on 1/27/09 9:10 pm - Richmond, VA
Congrats on the 30 pounds post op thus far!  You are doing fantastic!

Tammy C

down 260+ pounds and loving life more than ever!!!
proud  mom to Kara 12-08-1994 and our newest addition Claire Makenna born 03-26-09 weighing 6 lbs 13 ounces and 19.25 inches long and very healthy.  happily dating...i honestly never knew it could be this good!  there is that special Guy for everyone out there...either you already have him or you will find him when He is ready for it! 

open RNY 04-25-2005

Life could not get any better than this!

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