Munroe Regional Medical Center Bariatric Program Bariatric Center
I met Dr. Hoddinott after the initial waiting period for the appointment,about 3 months.When I entered the office, the staff was very professional and had all my information recorded on a printout. I didn't have to fill out anything, just give them a copy of my insurance card.In the waiting room, I met 2 other ladies who were both post-op.We had a terrific conversation while I waited.
I went back after a few minutes, no long wait or anything,10 minutes at the most, and Dr. Hoddinott came in the room as soon as I went back.I was extrememely nervous, I had made a whole notebook full of notes and extensive research I had done, proving why I would be the ideal candidate for gastric surgery.I was anticipating something more like a job interview.I was completely wrong!
Dr. Hoddinott was like talking with a friend about any other problem.He spoke frankly and asked me direct questions without making me feel ashamed or embarrassed.He told me what he thought would be best and why. He drew me pictures and asked me often,"do you understand?" I really felt comfortable in this office.I felt we decided together on a a plan.
Afterwards, I met with his office planner to plan the surgery date and pre-op testing and apply for insurance approval.She gave me information to attend a support group and nutritional counseling sessions.She was very nice and I felt confident that she would do her best for me.Now,I am awaiting insurance approval and proceeding with pre-op testing.
assuming insurance approval,surgery is scheduled for feb 03.
Dr. Hoddinott was very nice, down to earth and drew pictures to show me exactly what was involved with open gastric bypass surgery. He took the time to really explain the procedure to me.
There is one suggestion I would like to make to Dr. Hoddinott. A new patient (at time of consultation) should be informed of basic aftercare planning pertaining to nutrition and what you probably can and can't eat the first 3 - 6 months. This information could be a phamplet or handout including a list of internet sites or books and atricles.
Also, patients who are in that "should I or shouldn't I" stage should be well informed of all steps as well, from consult to 12-24 post op.
In my experience, I was not really made aware of the surgery risks except thru what I researched myself. Again, I would recommend that a handout with details or stats be given out during a consultation.
Dr. Hoddinott did a wonderful job helping me understand what was happening with my new stomach pouch as I endured some complications. Again he drew me pictures and answered my many questions through out my lengthy hospital stay.
Dr. Hoddinott and his staff kept me well informed of my progress and put me at ease when my frustration level was high.
The doctors staff were all pleasant and professional. The only concern I had was that in my opinion, one of the nurses packed my stomach wound too tightly (during post op) and it seemed to have re-opened the wound somewhat.
Dr. Hoddinott is very concerned with the results of the surgery. He is truly invested in his patients loosing the weight and keeping it off. In my experience, he worked very closely with the hospital nutritionist to assure that I would not become malnutritioned.
I believe that both surgical competency and bedside manner are very important. It is my impression that Dr. Hoddinott rates highly positive in both respects. I would recommend him to anyone looking for a surgeon. This surgery has lots of risks and I suffered some of the common ones. Dr. Hoddinott monitored my complications carefully. He gave my body the time it needed to heal itself and had the insight to recognize that it could. For that I will be forever greatful!!
I thank GOD and Dr. Hoddinott for getting me through the surgery and that I am here today. If you are out there considering this surgery, by all means research it. If you need a surgeon, Dr. Hoddinott is as good as they come and he is down right NICE too.
My first impression of Dr. Hoddinott was that he made me feel like i've known him for years. He didnt pull any punches and told me straight out. He explained the procedure and what to do afterwards, and if i listen to him im gonna be just fine. The staff was also very friendly and didnt make me feel uncomfortable at all. I was a little nervous at first, but after speaking with Dr. Hoddinott and his staff i felt more at ease.
We didnt get into too much aftercare since i still have to go for pre-testing so until thats done im just going to wait and then discuss it with him.
A date has been tenatively scheduled for Aug.27th. All i know is that if my back and shoulders stop hurting and my blood pressure goes down by losing all this weight it will all be worth it.. Im thinking about all the new "smaller" size clothes i will be able to fit into..
I'll try to keep u posted as time allows..
Nov.4,2002...
All I can say is thank you Dr.H,having this surgery has really made a change in me..I feel like a different person and am happy with my results. You're the best!
My first impression was a good one. I had already interviewed another surgeon but did not feel the connection I had with Dr. Hoddinott. I was very impressed with his confidence. His office staff is friendly and concerned. He explained everything in detail and has assured me time and time again I can call on him with any questions.
My only complaint was I was told I would be sedated for the "scope test" when I got there he changed his mind and I was awake for the whole thing. That was TERRIBLE!
Overall, I have to say he has been good so far. My surgery is Dec. 3rd. I will let you know better after all is said and done.
My first impression of Dr Hoddinott was that he was very easy to talk to.
I still feel that way.
The staff was nice.
On the aftercare, it's hard for me to say. It's only been 5 weeks for me now. One thing I can say is, if you call with a question, their very nice and give you all the info you need.
The doctor was very open about the risks of surgery. He answered all my questions.
He comes across as a nice caring person who gets joy from helping overweight people. My impression has not changed so far. The staff has been very helpful to me and I have had no problems with them. What I like least about the doctor is I don't feel he spends much time with you and truyly gets to know you which I really like that. He tells you everything and lets you ask questions but well there is this hurried feeling you get from him. Plus, I would have thought he would have asked more about my obesity. I think people should know that even with the hurried factor, he does seem to care about helping people. His staff really does emphasize after care. They even just started making patients attend a seminar on the surgery as far as nutrician and what you can expect after the surgery when you wake up. They are in the process of starting a support group. He is very upfront & to the point about the risks of surgery. So far, I rate him an 8.
10/22/02 - Dr. Hottie as everyone calls him is a great doctor! He did a wonderful job on me! He's awesome! I rate him a 10 out of 10!
Had my initial appointment with Dr. Hoddinott on 7/31. Was immediately put at ease, was pleasantly surprised when his recommendation was for the BPD/DS rather than RNY. Karen submitted for insurance approval on on 8/15. EGD on 9/4,and wasn't as bad as I thought it would be, stayed awake for the 2 minute procedure vs. being anaesthetized. Dr. Kitzner (breathing test) on 9/30, surgery date 10/29. Karen and Dr H worked hard to get the DS approved and I am eternally grateful.
Very friendly. His entire office staff is very helpful and friendly. It is nice to find a surgeon with a sense of humor. Dr. Hoddinott was very thorough in covering exactly what the procedure entails and the risks involved.