"My new surgeon is Dr. Bolar. I met Dr Bolar and he's very thorough and accurate in his explanation of the surgery. My boyfriend learned for the first time all about the rearrangement of my digestive system. I've heard only good things about this Dr who has done more than 1100 (I believe) of these procedures. I was preapproved for surgery so it was just a matter of getting the insurance coverage changed from Dr Gaar to Dr Bolar. Dr Bolar's staff that I have met are Carol and Catherine. Both ladies are very nice and extremely helpful. After I have my surgery, I'll include information about my experience at Georgetown Hospital. I've heard it's a very good place.
About Dr Gaar (and staff) who dropped me as a patient:
Dr Gaar spends a lot of time with the first consultation. He makes sure he understands your health issues and is careful to explain what to expect from WLS. He takes as much time as you need to answer your questions. The consultation is one on one, not done with a group of ppl. This surgeon is not churning out gastric bypass in an assembly line type fashion. He seems caring and concerned with making sure all factors are such that will produce a safe and successful outcome.
My impression of Dr. Gaar (as a person, not as a skilled surgeon) did change over time. See comments above for more info.
His staff is a one woman phenom. Susan is efficient and well-organised. If she says it will happen, she doesn't forget. She promptly gets out the letters and documentation to the insurance company. She kept me informed, was very patient with me when I was denied the first time around by the insurance company. However, she didnt question my denial by the insurance co. I had to check into that and find out specifically why I was denied, then take steps to provide the insurance co. with enough info to get approval, which Susan then resubmitted. Don't expect Susan to carry you. Be actively involved. Find out what your ins. co requires for approval and oversee that process."
