Question:
Tests and Consults with Dr. Keshishian

What tests does Dr. Keshishian require of a patient if they are on medicare/medical? Can I do these tests in my hometown if I live 200 miles away from Delano, CA? Can he do a consult on the phone?    — sharon M. (posted on September 15, 2004)

September 15, 2004
Call your dr to find out for sure. I had my surgery done in LA. I live in Taft. With my dr I was able to have all my tests done around home. That helped alot. If you are able to have the test done in your home town make sure to get a copy of all the results. The day I went in for surgery the nurses couldn't read any of the paperwork that was faxed to them. Luckily I had a copy of everything. If I hadn't, it was going to take them longer to redo some of them for themselves. Good Luck
   — Cameron Van Winkle

September 16, 2004
I don't know about this doctor, but mine was 2 1/2 -3 hours away and I could do almost all of my tests at home. But I would not recommend your first consult be by phone. I don't think the doctor would allow it either, but you won't know what you think of him if you don't see him and his office in person. It's worth the long drive. I had to drive up there for the consult, then preop testing (blood draw and xrays and such that had to be in house) about two weeks before surgery. I then was up there for surgery and 2 week, 3 month, and 6 month follow ups. Maybe 6 week also. But the drive was worth it for my health. Get the best doctor you can and the drive can be a pain, but the worst of it is over in 6 months or so, then you have a healthier you when you're done. Good luck in your journey.
   — Dragonfly2B2

September 20, 2004
Sharon, Have you found the Yahoo group for Dr. K? He has a bunch of post-ops there, and I'm sure they'd have the answer for you. I had my surgery in Spain and my local PCP did all of my pre-op and now does all of the post-op stuff. I live in Oregon - so yes, it's possible to work this kind of stuff out. I have heard that Dr. K's office are really good at responding to email. Let me suggest you go to www.duodenalswitch.com then to the surgeon's tab, choose California, and then you'll find the contact info for his office there. Drop them an email, and I'm sure they'll get back to you soon! Blessings, dina
   — Dina McBride