UVAHealth Bariatrics Hospital

I love this hospital and never have any fears or concerns about haveing to stay there for any reason

I just had my first consult with Dr. Hallowell today. He was very friendly and warm. He shared a great deal of important information, but I didn't feel overwhelmed when left. In fact, he is one of the first doctors I've ever felt a sense of security with.
There is a structured aftercare program at UH. I have learned a great deal from the pre-op support group. I know this is a process, not just a procedure.
Dr. Hollowell was very open about surgery risks. In fact, at the support group there was a woman who went through the surgery twice because of a fistula. Everyone is nice, but REAL! I didn't feel like I was being sold something.
As far as something negative to say, I may have more after surgery. But, so far I have had nothing but a positive experience.

First impression: He was nice.He also said I had one of the best diet histories he has ever seen.I explained I was well educated about the procedure,and asked a couple of questions,which he answered well.This first meeting was a bit informal,but I will update as we move along.

3/18/03 Dr. Hallowell did my surgery on 3/11.One thing I can say is that he means business,and he knows his job well.

he was very friendly.it hasn't.His office staff were very friendly and informal.Nothing.That he takes pride in his work.They are very diligent about following all the post op rules and information.Yes they are very structured.Very honestly. on a scale of one-ten i would rate him a nine. both were great.

will meet him the 26 of this month

I'm a 37 year Old Female I go for My first consultation on may 1, 2003, I am so hoping for this surgery, As of right now I have no medical problems, I'm afraid if I don't do something about my weight that I will have problems in the furture.

Have been doing hundreds of these surgerys a week, and waiting lists are very long. I would recommend this hospital for any type of surgery.

1/3/2002 - Initial Appointment

My appointment was scheduled for 8:30 am. I was one of the first patients in the office that morning. Dr. Shirmer was approximately 1 hour late for my appointment due to bad weather (ice and snow). However, I did not really mind because his office staff made my wait comfortable. I met with a resident of the hospital first, who ask all the pertinent questions and then met with the office nutritionist to go over my knowledge of bariatric surgery and the nutritional requirememts Post-Op. Also while I was waiting, they sent me over to the lab for blood work. Finally, I met Dr. Shirmer. He seemed very nice and willing to listen to what I had to say, as well as answer any questions I had. He made me feel that he would stay and talk with me until I was satisfied. I did not feel rushed at all. He went into great detail and told me about all the possible complications after surgery. At the end of the appointment he said he felt I was a good candidate for the surgery and pending the results of my psychological evaluation, he would recommend approval to my insurance company. Overall, I have a really good first impression of Dr. Shirmer and his office staff. I look forward to meeting with him again soon.

12/12/02 - Final meeting with Dr. Shirmer. My surgery date is scheduled for January 13, 2003. Things were a bit more rushed at this appointment, but I am sure that has to do with his overwhelming case load. He and his staff continue to be both consideratate and accomodating. Be sure that you allow yourself at least 1/2 a day for your final appointment prior to surgery. This will give you time to complete all paperwork and any applicable tests (ultrasound, x-rays, etc.).

1/16/03 - Dr. Bruce Shirmer is a miracle worker. I feel truly blessed that he was my surgeon and look forward to working with him in the coming months, post-op. I had my surgery on January 13th and was in the hospital only 2 nights! I was visited by both Dr. Shirmer and then his nurse, Anna Miller. They seemed generally interested in my well being and made me glad to have such a dedicated team behind me during this process.

I had an overall great experience at UVA and would highly recommend it to everyone.

Dr. Hallowell has a wonderful reputation as a surgeon and I believe he is very capable. I didn't see much of him before surgery and his whole office is more oriented to the post surgical patient. So, I am getting to know him now. He is quiet and personable. I was supposed to be a lap patient but due to my age and previous surgeries, he convinced me to go open. He was quite patient during the discussion and did not condescend at all. The scar was suppose to be the size of his fist. Both of the patients that were in with me had a scar like mine ... navel to bra. On the plus side, no infection or other problem and it is neat as a pin.

The aftercare is a litle loose. The support group is a staged dog and pony show but the program is evolving and gettign better all the time. It is still pretty new.

The staff is extremely competent if a little hard to get hold of. It seems they prioritize and when you really need to talk they are there. I can live with that.