Anyone from the Coast?

rubberband · 05-12-2008, 08:31 AM

I used Dr. Thomas Lavin, great Dr. As for the LA group being late, yes they got me in later than suppose to but I still left hospital by 3:15 on my way home. Their bedside manner makes up for not being on time and also the price since I was self pay (13,500.00). This was for everything and 1st year checkups and fills. The Dr.s office personal is wonderful and so is Southern Surgical Hospital. Even though I was later than suppose to be it was well worth it. They where just great. I would recommend them both Hospital and Dr.s to anyone.

KatsenD · 05-12-2008, 09:06 AM

Hi Fdlijn, I had my surgery in Mobile, May 2, by Dr. Hannon. I've had no problems with the doctor. I thought each visit went very well. Answered questions, listened to what he had to say and went home. I go back Thursday, for my followup appointment. Good luck...

Fdiljn · 05-12-2008, 11:34 AM

I appreciate all of the info. This is such a major decision I want to know as much as possible. Thanks to all of you who have responded. Please keep the info coming

Ineedalapband · 05-18-2008, 09:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Fdiljn

You asked in a previous reply about military. Are you Military and if so are you using Tricare. I am just beginning my research to use Tricare thru Keesler and would really appreciate any info you (or anyone reading this) has to share

Fdiljn I am also just starting my research about getting a lap band through Tricare here on the coast. When I asked my ob/gyn at Keesler she said on base they don't do dependents. I wonder if Tricare sends family members out? My husband is at the Seabee base and I've never seen my PCM there but it sounds like thats where I need to go.

Please let me know what you find out. Sounds like we are in the same boat. I do know that Tricare does pay for Lap Band now - the link to the article is TRICARE - Press Room

Fdiljn · 05-19-2008, 08:17 AM

Ineedalpaband -- I say my PCM at Keesler on May 6 and after asking about my previous diets, looking at my weight (100 lbs overweight) asking why the lap band, he said he would put in the referral. It was approved by Tricare by friday for a Dr in Mobile. I had been researching and decided I would rather go to LA so I called and they changed it. I have an appointment with the surgeon Dr Redmann on June 12. I will keep posting as I continue the journey

Ineedalapband · 05-19-2008, 11:01 PM

Do you mind if I ask if you had a comorbidity? I don't really and worry I won't get approved. I'm pretty sure I can meet the weight requirement though.

Fdiljn · 05-20-2008, 07:53 AM

I do not thing that really was an issue for the referral to the surgeon. I take blood pressure medication but I do not remember that he even asked me about that. I think the comorbidity will come up more when the authorization for surgery is sent it and I think the surgeon will have experience addressing that. I must again say that I am new to Tricare and perhaps have a more positive outlook than I should. Good luck and keep us posted and I will do the same

Ineedalapband · 05-21-2008, 01:01 PM

Thanks. I've got an appt with a PCM next week. I'm just going to lay it out on the line and tell them everything and try to convince her to give me the referral. Let me know how things go with you. Thanks!