"I had severe problems with pain meds and the lack of dispense leading to lung problems because I was breathing shallowly from my pain. When I complained to my doctor who went to the nurse supervisor, the nurse went off on me when I was alone. I rang my buzzer for assistance and would wait more than 30 minutes for assistance in almost every case. Almost always had to ring 2-4 and was often not even acknowledged."
"He was very nice and informative. He started off by asking what procedure I was interested in, why and what I knew or had read about it. He then affirmed or corrected what I knew. I did not know about the elevated risks of vitamin deficiency with the DS and that was of great enough concern to change to the RNY. I appreciated that he started that way. The only thing I did not like was that he obviously does not believe a person can get quality surgery outside of the US. I had some surgery in Mexico in May and my mother and two sisters had lap bands in Mexico, all with wonderful experiences and he was quite upset that we would take such a chance. His comments about out of the country surgery seemed to point to an overall generalization of the abilities of other countries in not being able to provide proper surgery and experience. I am lucky to not have to travel for this surgery because I am FINALLY on an insurance that will cover the surgery. The surgery I had earlier is considered elective (tubal ligation reversal) and there was no way to afford it in US. I DO believe that going for surgery outside the US is something that cannot be taken lightly, surgery should not be decided solely on cost. BUT if you can get a procedure for a good price and it is safe and quality then we should. Okay, done with that rant LOL.rnrnI liked that he had packages with all the info necessary to educate yourself about not only the pre op, the surgery but also a post op manual (not just the diet). Some of the info was a bit confusing and I called the office for clarification but the staff is more than happy to answer questions either by phone or email. I was really happy that they had a list of steps to take to get approved by insurance and all of the tests necessary for surgery. He had all of the necessary tests that my PCP had to order printed on forms so it was easy to get my PCP to just do it without any fuss at the one visit.rnrnA side note on my PCP. I am new to the area and new to the doctor. I am very impressed that he LISTENED to what I had to say about my weight loss attempts and how the weight has increased with each new med, each boost in insulin and is now to the point where I am in pain and cannot do what I need to do for my family. When I expressed in interest in WLS he actually told me that I was a good candidate and was more than willing to do what I needed to have it done. He also told me he had never had a patient have it done and so research was required to do it. I have never had a doctor agree that I should get WLS (I have yet to have a doctor think I should try Meridia even when I asked). The fact that he has not had a patient do it also shows that this is not something he pushes so his openness to it is astounding to me. TY Dr. Holmes!!!!rnrnI also must say that the HQ of the clinic is in San Francisco and the doctors borrow offices in different cities in order to offer appointments close to home!!! That is WONDERFUL. I had an appointment a few miles from my house instead of 93 miles away. They are also starting a support group here in my city that starts Jan. 27th.rnrnSince I have had the one visit with the surgeon I cannot provide to much about his bedside manner, or personality and such. I am happy with him and the office so far. "
