"My visit with Chris went well. As a RN, I believe that he covered all of the bases concerning a psychological assessment for WLS consideration. I believe his actual title is a licensed social worker, but don't hold me to that. He is involved in the local WLS support group at the local hospital, and I believe he understands the various pros/cons of surgery, and is comfortable in screening patients for potential problems or concerns regarding realistic expectations. He also is involved in forming post op groups for small group support. I think he is a good choice for the psych review required by my physician. I was told of the fee when I called to make my appointment, and was offered paperwork if it is accepted by insurance later, but I'm not sure if mine would be covered with my plan. I don't find it unusual to find self employed professionals to not accept insurance, as it can be very involved with paperwork, claims, documentation, manpower, and cost for a small, one person practice. "
"I had my first meeting with Dr. Valin and his staff on May 1st. I found that his office staff (Cecile and Debbie) were very knowledgable, compassionate, warm and friendly. Their new office is easy to access, and comfortable, with no arm rests on the waiting room chairs, so that an obese person could easily fit. The office is beautiful. I first filled out much paperwork, vitals done by Debbie, and had many questions answered by her. Dr Valin seemed to listen intently and allow me and my mother (who is also preparing for WLS) to ask as many questions as we had. I felt very comfortable with the office, and the information packet that they provide is full of specific and pertinent information for pre and post op care. The second office visit is scheduled after your psych and nutriotional consults, both of which I also had May 1st. Once both of these reports and your protein sparing diet urinalysis results are in, you will be called for the second visit, which will be more extensive, insurance authorization begins, and a tentative surgery date is scheduled. I am very pleased with Dr. Valin and staff. Both Debbie and Cecile seems to be very caring and knowledgable individuals. P.S. All risks, pros/cons, and realistic expectations were discussed in detail. Aftercare and nutritional support are stressed. I'll update again after second visit. I have no negative comments from this visit."
"Regarding my visit, I found Elizabeth to be a very warm, compassionate and informed dietician regarding all nutritional aspects of WLS. She is informative, and gave quite a bit of relative information to help me to prepare for the dietary changes with WLS. I highly recommend her! The office is currently being renovated, and her own office for meeting patients is warmly decorated and the seating is comfortable. When I called to make my appointment, the secretary reviewed the cost of the consultation, and the payment choices available to me. "
