"11/05/2001 I had my initial consult today! I was supposed to see Dr. Allen but I saw Dr. Cacchione instead.My first impression was that he seemed very comfortable,unrehearsed
and knowledgeable.My appt. was for 9:00 and I got there about 8:30!I was the only patient in the wating room,when I came out of the exam rooms it was a different story!
His staff seemed attentive and were friendly yet professional.I took my list of questions and referred to them only once because he answered them during the course of conversation.During a brief physical exam,he too was professional and assured me that if I adhered to the rules,I too would lose weight and could meet even surpass my goal wt.(75% of my current wt.)My IDEAL wt. is 164,that's what I am shooting for.He explained the risks involved,even though I told him I'd reviewed his packet and "live" on this website!Now,I am waiting for my echo and sleep study results to be faxed to him as well as the Psych.and Nutritionist evaluations which are scheduled for 11/12 and 11/21.After that I will meet again for surgery date.
He also recommended Gastric Bypass as opposed to Banding FOR ME due to a number of reasons,mainly my ins.(Medicare and Medicaid)will not pay for banding.I am Medicare primary due to disability so those of you who have such know that you are probably in a good position having this insurance.No hassles with pre-authorization as long as you have documented co-morbidities or BMI above 40.
Overall I'd rate them a 9.5(he'll get the other .5 two years from now when I am wearing my high school prom dress)out of 10.
Surgical competence AND bedside matter are important.I want my doctor to have the skills
to perform surgery efficiently and safely while being able to interact with his patients as people,not dollar signs.The only negative experience I had TODAY was getting on the exam table(muscle spasms)and not seeing Dr.Allen whom I'd expected to see,however I may have misunderstood in my overwhelming excitement exactly who I'd be seeing.All that matters to me is that whoever performs the surgery,that he be safe,
sure of his ability and procedure and confident in himself and outcome of his work.'Til next time,take care everyone and God Bless.
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