Hazem Elariny, M.D.

Who used this Surgeon?  Just from reading his website looks like he's the guy Im gonna want to use.  He does the VSG(sleeve). He accepts my insurance.  I've sent him an email (since Im at work and can't talk about this with them on the phone right now) but hope to call him soon.  So I think I'm on a good track so far.  I really just want to get this done ASAP! If any of you used this guy please let me know your thought.  I always like using Dr's, what ever when they come with a recomendation.  Also I'll drop your name when I talk with them. Thanks.

I haven't used him just yet, but he's my surgeon.  He did my exhusbands VBG and his sisters bypass.  I know  that users that are my friends have used him.  He has a website off of OH http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/bariatric+surgeon+p rofile+Hazem+Elariny+gbj.html IT has 141 patient testimonials and his own OH Forum (Click on the link at the right next to his picutre). I have a  couple firends in my profiel that have used him.  One is from MD his name is Eric  the other actually lives in CO and I forget her name.   Good luck!

Yeah, I found Eric and have written him.  For me it sounds like the best possible choice, he does the VSG and takes my insurance.  So I'm happy Im off to a good start.

The only thing I can say .... is to be a little patient when emailing.  Ive been swapping emails with the PA and it takes a couple days for them to get back to you.  However, when y ou call the office they are always friendly, eager to help and get things done right away.  Bianca is the receptionist and shes super!

Good to know, thanks for the advice.  Right now I can't really talk so I hope my email will just put me on their radar.  After this weekend, I hope to start talking with them and get things going.  I saw his appointment schedule on his website, do you really have to do all of those steps:

First	Discussion Group Meeting	USWLS	None
Second	Dietitian	USWLS	$399.00-$2000.00
Third	Physician Assistant	ALAGSA or USWLS	Co-payment if participating insured, additional fee if not
Fourth	Surgeon	ALAGSA or other Surgeon	Co-payment if participating insured, additional fee if not

I assume so although I wish I didn't have to.  Im sure you will say I do have to, its their process and probably for the best. Right now I just want to confirm they take my insurance and what do I need to do to be approved. Thanks. Jack

Yes you actually do... But it can go really quickly...depending on  your availability for things.

The next discussion group meeting is the 4th at 5 - 7 (I think) and then there is a support group meeting afterwards at 7, you may want to consider going to those to get some more insight and questions answered.

The PA and Dietician appt can be on the same day.  And you can elect to meet with Dr E sooner than later.  It's up to your comfort level. 

Oh Alex is the insurance submitter goddess :) You can ask for her if you'd like when you finally get to call to find out insurance requirements. Id start by calling your insurance company if you haven't already to make sure they have the WLS rider.

Funny thing about my ins is that I've called and they say no your not covered, but then when I look at what is covered on my policy it says it is covered.  I'm getting sick of the ins co already but hope that Dr. e's office will be able to help. I will call today and hopefully talk to Alex.

I just spoke to Bianca, very nice person.  ALEX IS ON VACATION!  But Bianca took my info and I told her I am planning on going to the 9/5 seminar.  Bianca said that if Alex calls in (which she does I guess) she'd pass on my info and maybe they could get me the insurance info.  Sounds like I'll be covered, either all or some I don't know.  But that's good to know.  I just want to know the costs going in even if they are thousands.  I have people who want to help (cost) and I have to give them a heads up.  Can't just call them and say I need $$$$ by tomorrow.  So i am excited.

Im glad things are progressing for you slow and steady wins the race. Double check on the ALAGSA date or with Bianca on the date of the next Information Session, I may have told you wrong.