Question:
Alvarado

This is not a question but rather an update: I got a call again from Dr. Wittgrove's office. They wanted me to call my insurer BCBS to send a letter to Alvarado in writing that they would mail the check to Alvarado directly. But then the BCBS rep said that her records show Dr. Wittgrove IS part of his local BCBS of California (although not my PPO) but that still means that he would be getting the check mailed to his office directly. His office needs to send his claim to the California BCBS office because the surgery would be performed there in California. Well....his office wanted me to call and do all this. You know what? I have had enough of Alvarado at this point! I have totally lost confidence and don't feel valued at this point. I have asked BCBS to have my insurance switched to Dr. Champion in Atlanta. And now my LAP RNY is scheduled for November 30th with Dr. Champion. Yeah!!!    — Toni K. (posted on October 28, 1999)

October 28, 1999
Good for you, Toni!! One thing that we don't need is aggravation from a provider's office that is supposed to be helping us. Good luck with your surgery.
   — kris R.

October 28, 1999
Good for you. I am glad you did not fall for his line of BS.
   — snicklefritz

October 28, 1999
Good for you, Toni! Before I decided to have Dr. Greenbaum do my surgery, I checked out several other doctors, one of whom is the 'premier' bariatric surgeon in this area. He was so rude to me, yawned the entire time I was in his office without ever once excusing himself, and yelled at my child for sitting in his chair, which looked like every other chair in the room. Then, never bothered to return my calls when I needed more information (didn't even have someone from his office call me back!). Well! No way was I going to be responsible for putting more money in his pocket, let alone entrust him with my life. I went to a surgeon who cared about me as an individual and treated me with respect and dignity, and I'm so glad I did! Jaye Carl, open proximal RNY 7-29-99, 68 pounds gone forever!
   — Jaye C.