Question:
Need Fee Info for Dr. Alan Wittgrove (Fees beyond R&C)

Help, Dr. Wittgrove is not on the PPO list for Aetna, but he seems to be the expert on Laproscopic RNY. My out of pocket maximum is only $1500, BUT I am responsable for any charges above R&C. Can anyone who has had this surgury tell me how Dr. Wittgrove (and the associated hospital and anestesiologist) charges above the amount that the insurance considers R&C. I would like to have any idea how much this will cost me. Also- has anyone had laproscopic sugurey from another Sugeon in San Diego (not associated with Alverado)? Most of the other Barriatric Sugeons in the area ARE on the PPO list. Thanks    — Chris H. (posted on June 7, 2001)

June 7, 2001
I had my Lap RNY done by Dr. Clark, Dr. Wittgrove's associate. Everyone was part of my PPO (Blue Cross) except Dr. Clark. His bill was $7150 of which my insurance only paid $808. I had to pay the balance. My surgery was 10/99 so fees may have changed. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to ask.
   — Jilda H.

June 8, 2001
Dr. Wittgrove was my first choice for surgery too after I attended his orientation. While I was trying to figure out how to self-pay, I attended another orientation by a Dr. Callery (Sharp Rees-Stealy contracts with him). I liked him even better than Dr. Wittgrove. He answers questions fully...Dr. Wittgrove had really brushed off our questions, although I didn't realize that until I heard Dr. Callery give full and thoughtful answers. I would urge you to go listen to him. He doesn't do the lap...but after careful evaluation of both procedures, I decided I was more comfortable with the open anyway. Less complications. I know others who have self-paid with Dr. Callery and found his rates to be very reasonable. Good luck with whichever you choose.
   — Anne G.