Question:
I chose Dr. Needleman OSU, my surgeon how long did it take for his office to get back

I sent in everything at the begining of Dec.2002, that was 20 days ago. Maybe I am not being patient enough but how long did it take for his office staff to get back with anyone?? Anyone out there who has had him for a surgeon?? I have sent in letter of med. ness., diet profile, taken tests with my phyic, filled out all the paper work that his office sent me and add a letter to the surgeon. 24 pages in all. I have ohio medicade insurence,, my PCP says that I should not have any problem. So then whats taking so long???    — bonitadodds (posted on December 20, 2002)

December 20, 2002
When you call and talk to Simone, the first thing she'll tell you is they are backed up. No wonder since Al Roker came forth anout his WLS. It will take several months, I'm sorry to say. I started in late September with the application and I'm probably going to have the surgery in February. Your file must go to a committee first, before you are accepted. I had to see their dietician, get blood tests, and see a psychologist while waiting. They were probably waiting for the result of those meetings/tests before accepting me. This month they have required me to see a dietician at my own hospital; that takes four weeks (one visit a week). It's designed to help you be able to eat correctly after surgery. I have one more meeting this Monday, then she will email OSU telling them to set up an appointment with the surgeon for me. That should be sometime in January. Someone here told me that the surgery is approximately 30 days after meeting with the surgeon. Once things get moving, you'll feel better...or less frustrated anyway. Email me if you have any more questions.
   — Gail G.

December 21, 2002
Bonita, I went thru OSU for my surgery. They are overwhelmed with people trying to get into the program now. Please be patient. You will get in. I know its easy for me to say, since I have had the surgery and you are still waiting, but it will be worth it in the end. I have talked with people from other programs, BTC & Mt.Carmel, and I am so happy that I went thru OSU. Simone, or Kathy are the 2 persons to talk too, if you call and have questions. They are extremely busy and its best to just wait till you get your approval to be excepted into the program in the mail. Then you will have to have a physilogical exam done, and 4 once a week nutrition classes. Then you will get to meet your surgeon. Good luck. If you have any questions feel free to email me. Good Luck! Enjoy your Holidays, and you will have a great 2003. Hugs!
   — pam k. S.