Has anyone been banded by Dr. Patel at Atlanticare hospital? I have a seminar to go to on Nov. 13th and did anyone have to pay any additional out of pocket fees going thru them?

Hi Jen,

I am going to Atlantic Care also. My surgery date is October 27. I have not had any out of pocket expenses. I am with Dr. Onopchenko though...not sure if they have different guidelines. What kinds of things came out of pocket for you? Good luck on your journey!

Thanks for replying, I had gone on Wed. to Temple University in Philly and when I got there they stated there was a $350 program fee that I would have to pay before I could get the psych eval and the see the nutrionist and a class. I called the insurance and they said they never heard of this because all of those things are covered under my policy. So I called Atlanticare and they said no hidden fees but I just wanted to make sure before I drive an hour away for the seminar. Good luck with your surgery and please keep me updated on how you make out. One other question, how long did it take you from the start of the process to the surgery date?

I didn't have to pay for my psych or my nutritional evaluation. Maybe it was the place that you went to? Maybe they just don't go through insurances. I'm not sure but I would double check and maybe you can reschedule for somewhere that takes your insurance so you don't have to pay out of pocket. Just a thought. My experience with Dr. O's office staff and whole process has been positive. No hidden fees and very up front about everything and so helpful!

I knew my insurance required a 6 month medically supervised weight loss program before approval so I did that before I went for my consultation with the surgeon. I did that from December-June and had my consultation July 8, 2009. After the consultation, I completed all of the preop testing and was approved and scheduled for October 27, 2009. :closedeyes: Good luck!

I feel so much better speaking to about this... I am definitely encouraged now to go forward. I can't wait to get the process started. :closedeyes:

Great! Keep me posted :w00t: Good luck on your journey :closedeyes: