Aviv Ben-Meir, M.D. My first meeting with Dr. Ben-Meir was in February, 2007. My first impression was that he was a kind, self-confident surgeon. He answered my questions, did not rush me and when leaving the office, stated to me that he would take good care of me. After surgery, I saw him twice before leaving the hospital. Every precaution was taken to ensure an uneventful surgery..to reduce complications which could occur. He emphasized aftercare, made certain I understood everything and was ALWAYS VERY PLEASANT! A+ for surgical competence and bedside manner. I would recommend him to anyone contemplating RNY or lapband surgery.
Over all, I felt they have a very good structured program, however since I wound up having to go self pay, I think was a bit of a wrench in the "normal works". There were times that I felt my case specialist took too long in addressing my calls, following up on my appeal, and at times almost seemed like she had no clue who I was. I understand there are hundreds of people that come and go through their doors, but let's face it, we want and need to feel that they know about "my case and my medical history".
The PAT went flawlessly as did the group meeting with the dietician. They provided detailed printed materials needed for Pre and Post-op, addressed risks of the surgery and even though you left overwhelmed, you left with a confidence.
When I asked the cost of the total package to have this surgery, I was told $4,000 for the surgeon, $15,450 for the hospital which was all inclusive, and a bill for anesthesia approx. $2,000-$4,000 and would be discounted if paid immediately. If any problems were to happen, of course there would be additional charges. 6 weeks after my surgery, bills started rolling in above and beyond those quoted to me, bills for various doctors, and then the mother load of a bill came in for $9,850 ABOVE AND BEYOND WHAT I ALREADY PAID! I feel I was grossly misinformed! Now I have to figure out how to come up with $10,000! I am very upset about all of this!
UPDATE 12-12-07
GREAT NEWS! They screwed up in sending the request for coverage to my insurance. This was for the charges I paid for PRIOR TO SURGERY. Thank goodness.......I now can get on with my life and the holidays without the worry of how I was going to cough up another $10,000.
Member Interests
Computers & Internet - Just love my computer- searching the web for everything I need or want
Crafts - Love making things, however my hands do not let me anymore
Congrats, Teresa, on
your surgery.
I was reading some
of your blog & see
that you have a good
handle on that
"bullet"!!!
I wish you all the
best as you make new
milestones & healthy
milestones.
Regards,
Annie
Ah, I wanted to post
on your surgery
page, and I see you
already have some
great comments! I
am glad you are now
on the Loser's
Bench. You save a
spot for me, because
I will be there
before you know it.
I am THRILLED you
are doing well. I
am praying for your
continued recovery
and hope all
continues to go as
well for you. God
bless. . .and lotsa
hugs! Beth