Hi Paula....I'm a Medicare receipent also...awaiting a surgery date. I am originally from Harrison, Mi. having just moved to Fl. last fall. Anyhow, I too have to pay up front the surgeons fee....because he says Medicare often denies the surgeons fee, however does pay the hospital. I have dug into the pocket and am going forth with this...I'm not a young chicky (68/B.D. 17 July) and need to lose weight...have had many problems associated with obesity. Give me an e-mail at
[email protected]. There's other Drs. that you might want to check out with. Hope to hear from you...you are a brave lady ! Bonnie