Question:
I would like to hear from patients or DR. MICHAEL HOCKING In Gainsville FL

DO YOU RECOMMEND HIM? THANKS    — Marybeth O. (posted on September 5, 2001)

September 5, 2001
From what I understand Dr. Hocking is not taking any more patients.I was told that Shands has told him he has to cut down on the amount of gatric bypass surgeries he performs . Have also heard that he has been having alot of infection problems. I was originally going to have him for my surgeon. I changed my mind because I have a very reliable source that gave me this info. There have also been alot of people who have been pleased with him though.......another thing I do not like is the fact he has virtually no after care program. He expects your PCP to do follow-up visits. And most PCP's do not know much about gastric bypass let alone the after care! Research carefully.
   — [Anonymous]

September 5, 2001
I had my surgery with Dr Hocking on October 12, 2000. I had open proximal rny at Shands. I did not have one problem at all, received excellent care an have been back to him for 2week, 1 month, 3 month, 6 month, and will go for my yearly visit Sept 18. I live 3 hours away from Gainesville. He has a registered dietition named Mary who I have seen 2 times and who I can call any time I want. Dr Hocking gives you his email for day to day questions, and always answers them withing 24 hours. I do go to my pcp also for day to day things and he is well aware of my needs. Dr Hocking is a full professor of surgery and has alot of other duties besides operating. I know a friend of mine was told there was a 5 month waiting list just to see him now. Part of the problem is that this surgery is now known about alot better thanks to people like Carney Wilson, Rosanne and media coverage. the people wanting this surgery has greatly increased. With his other duties he probably can't increase his caseload. I am in the medical field, and one of my questions pre-op was what was his rate of post-op infection. At that time, he had not had a post op wound infection in 4 months. Infections happen, alot of it depends on the patient and the particular circumstances. to say he has no after care program is incorrect. All his patients see him at the intervals I have indicated above. As for current post op wound infections, that is information that is available for you. I would go back to him in a minute. by the way I have lost 140 pounds in a little less than 11 months.
   — claire C.