Taynaydosmom

Another march bandster here! I am on the 8th! Can't wait but freaking out at the same time!

Another March bandster here! March 8th is my day! The 6th is my birthday so happy birthday to me! I am freaking out now that I have a date!

Correct me if I am wrong but are saying that only people who pay for surgery get taking care of...because I would have to disagree!

Wow 54 Shirley that's awesome...are you still planning to do surgery? It sounds like you totally have it under control! Great work!

I am currently enrolled in the Cedar Sinai program and I wouldn't go anywhere else! There are no program fees or hidden costs. They do require an extensive multidisciplinary approach. Nutrition, pschy, extensive pelts lap work up...but do you want to go somewhere where they put the band in on your first appt. The whole point of all the different appt. Is to make sure you will be safe during and after the procedure. I am extremely happy with Cedars.

I second all the above in regards to Corrigans post! I was very very impressed with the staff at Cedar Sinai in LA. Dr. Burch was in surgery the day I was there so I met with the PA Mary Alice! Love her! She spent over 45 minutes on my consult answering all my questions and concerns! I was also able to back my appointments up so that I was able to get 4 different appts. Done in one day. I live about 100 miles from the hospital so being able to get so much done on one visit was awesome! Wishing you all the best of luck!

Thank you everyone for your help. I went to Cedar Sinai today and was extremely happy with Dr Burch and his extensive staff. I am very happy with my choice and can't wait to get further down this life changing path! A special thanks to Corrigan!

Corrigan, my insurance company put me in touch with them because they said they are a CoE. But I lived in the SB/Riverside area for 15+ years and had never heard if it. So all I did was google it and everything that came up was negative. That's why I went with Oliak and now Burch!

Sorry to hear about your experience there. I haven't heard good things about that hospital. Even though it would be the closest for me I would rather drive than get crappy care!

Thanks for all your help everyone! I am starting over fresh with Dr. Burch at Cedars in L.A. I have 4 appts. On the 10th so excited!

Corrigan...you are my hero!

I haven't heard good things about Parkview. What was your experience?

Feeling totally frustrated today! I had my first appt. with Dr. Oliak scheduled for today...but when they called to confirm I was slapped with the 3,500 dollar program fee. Needless to say that appt. was canceled. In order for my insurance to pay for the procedure I have to use a Center of Excellence aka COE. I am in the High Desert area of So Cal. But I am willing to travel to get this ball rolling again. Anybody have a COE that they would recommend in my area? Feeling the need to take my frustration out on the kids Halloween candy!