Question:
Dr. Champion up-front costs.

I am still researching this surgery and was wondering from any of Dr. Champion's patients, what is the amount of money that he requires up-front to do this surgery...I hear even if you have insurance approval, he still requires a substantial deposit...Any info. would be greatly appreciated.    — Elizabeth B. (posted on August 20, 2002)

August 21, 2002
I noticed you are in Atlanta. I am too, and I used Dr. Edward Waits. He is located at Northside Hospital and for me is the most wonderful Dr. I've ever met. I wouldn't trade our relationship for anything. He doesn't require a deposit of any kind and is office staff really works hard to help you get full approval and fast. Please feel free to email me at [email protected] if you have any other questions. I'd be happy to send you a copy of my diet history that Aetna required. I got my approval in less than 2 weeks, had no deposit and only a $100 copay for the whole process. It was wonderful. I'm 15 months post-op and down 135 lbs. This is truly my miracle.
   — Teri D.

August 21, 2002
I paid $2400 up-front for my lap RNY with Dr. Champion, then was re-imbursed the entire amount after my insurance companies paid. The up-front payment varies on the patient's insurance coverage and the projected re-imbursement. Four of us in our family have had lap RNY surgery with Dr. Champion. As an RN, the experience and expertise of the surgeon were critical factors for me. After months of research, I felt that Dr. Champion met those criteria. He is one of the pioneers of laparascopic WLS, and is internationally renowned by his surgical peers. Any amount of up-front money would have been an acceptable trade-off for a surgeon of his caliber. Best wishes!
   — Diana T.