Any Middle Tennessee folks go self-pay with their surgeon?

[Sunshine37135 0]

Centennial really does seem to have a great aftercare program. I believe that they are concerned about the long term care of their patients and not just about getting their money and they're done with you. I think Dr. Houston probably has one of those personalities that are easily misunderstood at times. You know from listening to him that he's intelligent. As a nurse, I knew right away that he was the dr that I wanted. One girl said that he changed after surgery; she thought that maybe he saw so many consults that never followed through that he didn't get too involved up front. My pre-op consult was interesting. I had to bring all three of my kids (7,4,4) to the appt. He was running late. They had been good the hour we had been there but were getting restless toward the end. He apologized for being behind and said he didn't know I had kids waiting with me. Then he proceeded to say that it was my fault for bringing them in the first place. Now, I THINK that was supposed to be a joke......I hope it was.

[Mel1071 149]

I have to admit, I absolutely fell for his personality during the info session. He has that combo snarky/sarcastic thing going on that I love. And like you said, you just tell he's brilliant. I know during the session some people seemed a little taken aback by his bluntness. But here's my taken - I've finally come to terms with my obesity and how to deal with it - I don't need someone who's all rainbows and Skittles and unicorns. Meeting with him made me realize I was fine paying extra to have a doctor I am 100% comfortable with.

I've been to one of the counseling sessions they have and was really impressed with how good that was too. As of right now, I can't say enough good about Centennial and Dr. Houston.

[Sunshine37135 0]

Well, all but one of my claims have been submitted to insurance. All I can say is that if you are going in as a self pay, try to get something in writing up front on the costs. Dr. Houston was $6K, The hospital (excluding the anesthesiologist) was $41K. This was the surgery and hosptial stay. I have the prices for the upper GI and nutrition consult that were done pre-op as well. I don't know if your insurance plans to pay for that testing. I think the hospital quote for self pays is around $26K. That may be about right because their reimbursement for the surgeon, surgery and hospital stay was $27K.

[Mel1071 149]

I have everything in writing as a self pay. They are very transparent with the costs. Here's the breakdown:

Dr. Houston - $3400 (this includes the surgery and follow up appts @ 1 week, 6 week, 3m, 6m, 9m, 1 yr. also includes BLIS insurance for any complications within 90 days)

Hospital - $13,132 (this includes the hospital stay, pre-admit testing, pharmacy meds, lab services)

Anesthesiologist -$1500

X-ray (if needed) - $34

Plus, I get unlimited lifetime access to the nutritionist, exercise physiologist, and support groups.

Oh, I should mention my consult fee was $205. I was originally told at the info seminar it was going to be $250 but Dr. Houston charged me $205 - even after if I questioned if that was correct. A nice surprise.

[Mel1071 149]

Btw - how are you doing? Things going well?