Ohio State University Medical Center Hospital

I was scared and excited about the whole concept of having gastric bypass surgery. Dr. Needleman put my mind at ease. I did my research and found that he was the most qualified and reputable surgeon in the area. I am glad I have made the choice and will follow through. October 2006, 3 years later, I still se Dr. Needleman for my yearly check ups he must have done a good job because I have lost 156#. Thank you, Dr. Needleman

altho the hospital I thought was ok, the nurses were good, but the medical help I can't remember what there called nursing assistants or something like that, really left alot to be desired. I could not move because of my second surgery. I was flat on my back for the 5 weeks I was there. several times when I rang my buzzer to go to the bathroom, I was so embarassed because after waiting 15minutes for help to put a bed pan under me, I had wet the bed, and then they got mad at me. but the nurses and Dr's were great

I would highly recommend OSU. I must admit that I wasn't looking forward to using this hospital, but now I am glad that my insurance dicated the change. The staff was wonderful and very attentive. I couldn't have gotten better care.

My surgeon, Bradley Needleman, M.D first impressed me by not pushing for the gastric bypass surgery. He was very candid about the surgery and its risks and possible complications. He also talked about the solutions to the risks and complications, which was very reassuring. He has both superb surgical competence and a winning bedside manner.
Dr. Needleman is the best qualified, kindest, most caring surgeon I could have chosen. It was as if a family member were taking care of me. He was as distressed over my post surgery nausea (I'm prone to upset stomach)as I was . Although he had to leave town a day after the surgery, he kept in touch with his colleagues concerning my progress. I always felt he was only a phone call away.
Dr. Needleman is a very patient and thorough doctor, and is excellent at describing each step of the surgery and fills. I am not surprised that each of his patients feels the same way I do--he is simply the best!!

The nurses were WONDERFUL. They were the kindest, most caring, giving nurses anyone could ask for.

The general care was good at University, however the nursing staff was ghastly. As I arrived on my floor a PCA came into the room and was rude and very nasty. When I challenged her behavior she physically assulted me by demanding in a statement, "Give me my equipment", whereby she physically yanked my blood pressure cuff off and pulse meter. This behavior was horrific. I, reported it of course, and the charge nurse basically poo'd poo'd me. Needless to say the PCA is still there and nothing was done to ensure other patients against her violent behavior. In addition, an RN that I understood became a nurse at nearly 60 years old was unflexible to meeting my nursing needs. I tend to get infections quite easy and my JP drain wound was spilling over and the bandage needed changed. However, when I asked at around 7:30 am if the RN would change the bandage he proceeded to tell me that it was time for meds to be passed and my changing my dressing would have to wait until 10:00 am. During this time I had to have 2 gown changes due to becoming soaking wet with drainage. I never reported this, however this RN needs a lesson in flexibility. Overall, I would never choose OSU again unless my physician made that choice for me.

The staff seemed to forget I had also had an open total hysterectomy at the same time. They forgot to close my door most of the time and there was construction being done in the hall outside my door (with jackhammers!)

I had an episode of chest pain that wasn't relayed to any doctor for 60 minutes. My aide was a snot and asked if I'd had panic attacks before. Very disrespectful staff.

Dr. Needleman was professional and humble. He was kind and made me feel comfortable asking questions. He really reassured me regarding thoughts about surgery and post op care. He had a good discussion regarding aftercare and emphasized that this is a tool which requires effort on my part. He did address the risks and made sure that my husband and I understood them. I feel he is very thorough regarding surgery and I truly appreciate that he doesn't require a bunch of fasting and bowel prep as a pre op. The staff that I dealt with were very pleasant. I really have been impressed with the entire OSU program. I didn't realize how wonderful they are and I'm so thankful that I got the opportunity to change from my original surgeon/bariatric treatment center. And yes, God does work in mysterious ways!

I had requested a bariatric suite when my surgery date was scheduled, and again when I registered the morning of surgery. The suite was awesome, there was a sitting area with a separate televison for visitors. There was a recliner that also functioned as a bed, which was nice as my mother stayed one night with me.
The staff was professional, courteous and friendly. I experienced horrible gas pains in my back, and my nurse was on top of things. She was able to get something aside from my PCA pump to alleviate the pain.
I had nursing assistants in my rooms to help when ever I needed.
I was treated with dignity and respect which is most important when you are in the hospital.
I would go back to OSU anytime, except it is a 100 miles from my home.

I have not met Dr. Needleman yet, but I like what I have heard. I trust the Ohio State University Hospitals, feeling they are most capable of handling anything that may come along.

It has been nearly 2 months since I was told by OSU that I was "approved" for their program. Since then I have traveled to Columbus for another psych eval and nutrional consult. Both I have already completed, but have had to complete again with the professionals associated with OSU. Included in the nurtritional consult, I was required to have a MedGem reading (measures the bodies resting metabolic rate), the cost was $50, on top of my copay, and will not be covered by my insurance.

I am becoming quiet frustrated as I feel I am being drug along, despite having insurance approval. I already jumped through hoops with my insurance company, I don't feel I need to do this for a surgeon.

This week I had approx 10 lab tests drawn, and faxed the results to OSU. Friday I was told by Shannon, their program manager, that my case would be reviewed by the multi - disciplinary team next week, and at that time it would be decided weather or not I was accepted into their program.

Now, I have to do a 4 week diet program, and maybe I will be scheduled to see the surgeon in a couple of months.!!!!!!!! AAARGGGHHH, I'm not happy. I have been going at this for nearly a year, have battled the insurance company, and feel I'm being needlessly scrutinized by the the OSU bariatric program.

I met Dr. Needleman on 1/31/06, and he is worth the wait!! His staff is awesome, energetic and friendly. Dr. Needleman is very professional, but very down to earth. He doesn't have a good complex that some doctors have. He explained everything to me and my husband in a mannner that was easy to understand but not condescending.

Anyone else that is interested in having this procedure done at OSU should be aware there is a lot involved, this a very structured program, but this is all to provide the patient with the greatest chance of success. I