University of Chicago Center for the Surgical Treatment of Obesity Bariatric Center

well I have searched high and low for the perfect guy (surgeon). I am real picky when it comes to things like this as I am sure most are. I havent exactly met the actual doctor as of yet but was so impressed with the way his staffed handled my questions and concerns over the phone that I decided to go for it!

I am waiting for the book to come to make my first appointment, as you have to read thoroughly the book that was put together explaining the procedure, and what to expect before he will even see you.

So I am looking to get the ball rolling after three years of tossing this around. I will keep you posted.

I do not have a surgery date yet, however I have met Dr. Alverdy and his staff. Everyone is very nice. I have to say that his staff is exceptionally nice. They make you feel so much better, since this is the scariest time of your life. From what I've heard Dr. Alverdy is a great doctor. He seemed to know his stuff, but I've only met him once. I was really nervous about the surgery. After meeting with everyone I am actually excited. Their program is extensive and you will be committed to an aftercare program. As I find more stuff out I will post.

My first impression of Dr. Alverdy is that he is a no-nonsense kind of guy who knows his stuff. He has a pretty impressive resume, and of course, the University of Chicago has a great reputation. The program seems to be pretty comprehensive, and the staff is very knowledgeable.

He seemed really nice during our brief visit. I will have to visit with him more to make an accurate judgment of him.

I havent't been approved for surgery yet.
My first two visits with Dr. Alverdy and his
staff were very promising. Pat and Kim were
great as well as the nutrionist and
psychologist(sorry I don't remember their
names). Dr. Alverdy was very kind and was
genuinely caring. However, I was extremely
disappointed after I was denied approval by
my primary and secondary insurance companies.
I called Pat and asked if there was more
that they could do--help with the appeal, etc.
I was informed that they had done all they
could do. After reading posts on this site
and the OSSG sites, where the doctors further
pursued approval, I was left feeling all alone
in my battle.

When I met Dr. Alverdy, I saw right away how concerned he is and how kind and gentle and informative.

The entire proces the first day at the clinic was very good.

I met with the administrator and she explained the program. THen a nurse came in and explained the operation.

After that I had a physical exam and physical history.

Then I met with a psychologist and then a nutritionist.

THe staff was very professional. I can't say enough.

I'm actually looking forward to going back after I find out if my insurance co. will approve the surgery.

Dr. Alverdy is very concerned & caring. He has a very nice staff (program director Pat and nurse Kim are very nice, understanding, patient, knowledgable, etc.). Great emphasis put on psychological health; lots of questionnaires to fill out, etc.

Diet counselling adequate so far, nothing I didn't already know from WW, Jenny Craig, etc.

It is extremely difficult to get in to this program. Long appointment waiting time. I called in March and didn't go until end of May. Surgery approved by ins co end of July, first available surgery date mid-November!

Dr. Alverdy only does WLS 2 days a week.

Aftercare, well, 6 visits were mentioned for 1st year postop, and there was a mention of a support group at University of Chicago Hospital...need to look into that more.

I will have more info regarding the rest of the questions as the process continues.

Dr. Alverdy operated on me in August 1996. To date I have lost 230 pounds. He has been of great support to me throughout these past three years. He is a very caring and compassionate doctor. I continue to see him monthly and will do so until I have reached my goal.

So far excellent!