Question:
ANYONE HAVE INFO ABOUT DR. HIGA IN FRESNO, CA?

I have just been referred to Dr. Higa and would like to know more about him and his process. I have CIGNA/Medcore group. My initial consult is May 23rd. What does he require? How fast is his process until surgery? Any other info. most appreciated. :)    — duane B. (posted on April 22, 2003)

April 22, 2003
I am 3 weeks post op and Dr. Higa was my surgeon. My consult was in Feb. It took only a few days to get approved by my surgeon but 3 weeks to get a surgery date. They should send you a check off list of things you will need to take to your consult. The seminar and psych eval are mandatory. If I were you I would schedule the psych eval now. I had to bring in a copy of recent labs, recent physical, ekg, letter of recommendation from pcp. and last 10 years history of diet attempts. Depending on your insurance they may require more or less. I would suggest to have all this paperwork in order on your first visit. If they have everything they need, they will submit it to the insurance. How fast you get your surgery date depends on what hospital you can go to. I had to go to Clovis Comm. Hosp per insurance and he only goes there one day a week, so the wait can be longer. You may get a quicker date if you have it at St. Agnes Hosp. After my consult in Feb. I was contacted the end of Feb and was given a May 13th appt. Luckily, they had a cancellation and I had mine done on 4/1. I believe he is a great surgeon and would highly recommend him. I work in the medical field and at community hosp. where he performs surgery and I have heard nothing but great things about him. He has trained many other surgeons throughout the states. He is very personable, funny and has a great bedside manner!! Best of luck!!
   — Melissa B.

April 23, 2003
I have a consult on June 9th with Dr. Higa, I have heard that he is an excellent doc and that you are in very safe and capable hands. You do have to attend a mandatory seminar. I believe the next one is May 21st at 6:30 pm..but you have to sign up or "just show up" I know that if you get there really early and I mean EARLY they should let you in without having signed up for it...good luck...God Bless :) Alisia
   — Alisia P.