I have scheduled an appointment for a general informational seminar to meet with a surgical group in 2 weeks - Baptist with Dr. Spaw. As of right now it looks like insurance may not work out for me which stinks Has anyone done a self pay with Dr. Spaw for a VSG? If so, could you share how much it was ( I have left a message wi the medical group and haven't heard back plus I would just like some info from folks who have been there, done that.

Also, if not, do you have anyone else that you've done VSG self pay with in this area?

Thanks in advance!

Melissa

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.

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.

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.

Btw - how are you doing? Things going well?