Question:
I have BC/BS PPO of FL....Has anyone used Dr. Marema in Ft Lauderdale?.....

I really want to have this surgery done. I'm trying to get an ideal of how much out of pocket expense I'm going to have to come up with. Any information is greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance, Debbie    — Debbie W. (posted on May 26, 2003)

May 27, 2003
I had my surgery done by Dr. Esposito at Florida Medical Center. He was excellent and my surgery went extremely well. My out of pocket was his fee of $5,000 of which BC/BS of Florida will pay appx. $1.200. It was my decision to have him do my surgery knowing they were not a member of Bc because of the excellent reputation of their practice.
   — Phyllis H.

May 27, 2003
Hi Debbie. You might want to double check with Dr. Marema's office on whether or not he accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield anymore. I went to a seminar about 6 weeks ago and they did not tell me there, but I found out later that his group does not accept BCBS anymore. I have an HMO and not a PPO, but I would just put in a phone call to make sure. I had to go with another surgeon because he does not accept my insurance. I really liked him and his practice, but I had to change. I found an equally great surgeon, but I suggest that you check! Good Luck! Tara
   — Tara J.

May 27, 2003
We Walters have all the luck, eh? I went to see Marema's office, and was very impressed with the classes and meetings. I found out the hospital takes BCBS PPO (which I have), but Dr Marema and the other surgeons don't. So, I went looking, and have settled at the Cleveland Clinic in Weston... they take the insurance. I have a date (July 11) and am waiting for approval. The doctors and staff at the Cleveland Clinic are very kind; the upfront staff seems a little disorganized at times, but the hospital itself is magnificent. Keep me posted on your journey!
   — Tim W.

May 30, 2003
Debbie, Dr.Marema did my surgery on January 30th. He does not take BCBS, which is what I have. I opted to go with him anyway, because, after a great deal of research, he's the best there is in South Florida. His fee is $10,000.
   — Cathy S.