Question:
Is there something that I can do to make the time not seem so bad?

I have United Healthcare EPO and they cover RNY WLS 100% and I have found a good Dr that is listed in my book and I can not see him until I attend his WLS seminar. I choose him because he was in my book and I have talked to patients of his. I also know of another Dr. who has been doing this for years, but if I choose him I have to pay more out of pocket. I am so torn and confused. Dr. McCarty has done maybe 100 or more of theses proceedures, but the other doctor has been doing this since 1979 I know what the answer is, but I just need some feedback. You will probably all say a little money is worth having someone with more experience. Please help. Teena Adler Pre-op :300 Dallas, TX    — Skyedancer4u1 (posted on January 28, 2002)

January 27, 2002
Teena, I encourage you to investigate both surgeons thoroughly and then to make your selection accordingly. The WLS seminar is that one surgeon's way of presenting his methods to a whole group of people at a time, instead of individually. I found that kind of forum very educational because there were people in the audience who were in the same boat as me. We shared stories and good information. Good luck in whatever you do!
   — JoanneML

January 28, 2002
Teena...I chose a surgeon who has done fewer WLS than the main group in our city because I could get in to see him sooner. The main group has a 2 year waiting list!!! I did lots of investigating on the surgeon I chose. He is head of the teaching faculty at our medical center does many other types of surgeries and has done them for a very long time. His track record with the wls surgeries he has done is excellent. I think that quality of work is just as valuable as quantity. I also would think that maybe someone who has done fewer would be extra careful with is procedure. Ultimately you should go with what you feel most comfortable doing. Talking to some of those who have gone through the procedure with your chosen surgery is always a great help. Good Luck to you.
   — SARose61

January 28, 2002
My opinion is that you schedule a conference with both doctors, meet them, pose all your questions and decide which one you like the best. Just because the doctor has done more surgeries doesn't mean he is the one for you. I have found that you have to go by your gut instinct, a doctor who spends the time going over things in detail with you is a caring doctor and one you certainly want on your side during a procedure such as this. You want to be totally comfortable with this doctor and feel like he has your best interests at heart. That way you can go into the surgery which is a voluntary procedure usually, and feel confident about your decision. I know I had a momentary question as to if I was making the right decision to have this surgery, that is was voluntary and I could possibly have a complication and die. But, between my doctor and my family support, I got over that quickly and then it was done and I had made it through fine. I really feel a doctor that cares about you is the best to have on your side opposed to one who may charge more because he is more experienced. Not that a more experienced doctor is not good but just that sometimes like anyone who gets too confident in their jobs they do these procedures so many times that there is more chance of a careless mistake or being rushed to move the next patient in. You have to judge the doctor on your own by meeting him or her and discussing everything. It is your life you are talking about so ask questions, find out everything you need to know even if it seems silly ask it. A doctor who has the patience to answer all your concerns and makes you feel comfortable is a good one in my opinion.
   — Vickie B.