"Had to wait 10 months to get an appointment with him. At my appointment, a Medical student (was was so kind, by the way) did my history and physical, the Dr. Alverdy came in with his nurse. He seemed to be in quite a hurry, but he is a busy man. He has told me, that despite having quite some belly, as well as having had 3 previous c-sections, he believes he can do me laproscopically, which thrills me to tears... I was so afraid I would have to have it done open.
He made me see a psychologist and a nutritionist, who were wonderful folks (psychologist was a student, it is a teaching hospital though, so what the heck should I have expected??)
The initial appointment, there were a group of 5 of us. We met with Pat who is the program coordinator. She was very compassionate and gave us a brief explaination of what to expect. We will have more time for questions later.
I had my last appointment wtih Dr. Alverdy on 2/1/02before my RNy on 2/14/01.
I will let you know more when I know more.
12/24/01
I found out about a week ago that I have been approved for the surgery. I never heard a peep from the surgeon, so I called them. Pat, the program coordinator informed me that Dr. Alverdy is so backed up, they are not even scheduling more surgery until after the first of the year. She said my date should be sometime in March or April, but I am not holding my breath on that one.. they did tell me in my initial consult that it goes quickly after you get your approval, so they are not completely honest... And get this... the are making me complete a smoking cessastion program, despite the fact I have not smoked in six months, something my insurance will not pay for. I will keep updating...
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