"I first saw Dr Dietrick at a WISH center seminar. He was informative and answered questions with thought, he didn't seem bored or rehearsed. While not a jovial or smiley type, after my 1st initial appt with him and about 45 minutes of one on one questions and conversation, I felt like he would perform a good RNY for/in/on me, lol.
The staff at the Tampa center was nice. The medical assistant who helped with the urine, EKG and pulmonary tests was tops, and made you feel comfortable. The other professionals came to your assigned office room thru out the day, and were friendly, and if prodded, nice. Maybe I was just in a coma after having so much to learn and listen to and I was the boring one, lol.
Future patients.. They, especially Dr Dietrick can and will answer all doubts, concerns and give you reading or support. The initial appt will leave you a bit overwhelmed but after I came home and took my time reading and organizing what I needed to do, I realized just how much they want the WLS to suceed. For 8 weeks prior to the coveted 2nd appt, you have to follow a practise diet and exercise regime to fit you and your needs.( ex: I have very limited mobility and the exercise physiologist and I brainstormed what I can do to increase my movement) This is the stage I am in now and it is w o r k!
There are monthly support meetings and aftercare appointments also. This 8 week 'training' is making me feel more prepared to have a good outcome.
The risks are talked about and a weight loss book for morbidly obese persons is given to read also. It has the good, the bad and the sucess.
***** ***** ***** *****
At the last pre-op appointment, Dr. Dietrick will look you flat in the eye and ask you if you are prepared for this. The good and the bad. I don't think he can be fooled. This center is a compilation of the best of the best. It is not rushed and only the best outcome is what you and they want.
Overall, at this stage I give the WISH center an 8. More to come as I get going. They may end up being a 10, I just have not completed much yet.
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July 23, 2004 Nothing less than a 10. These folks, especially Dr. Dietrick are THE best. No hugs or mushy stuff but competence and success and care!"
"Other than a few language barriers it was a good experience. The med surg unit on the 3rd floor had bariatric beds, most of all cable channels, very wide and high seating for those of us of size(a chair I would like to have at home)private rooms. My bed was soft and wide but I am 5'10" and the knees bent under my butt so I never got good and comfy in the bed. Trapezes were available to help you move around in bed. Call lights are answered in a split second. The nurse call box is always on tho, you could hear the pages and calls for the nurses and staff from the desk a bit too loud. But I wouldn't trade the good care for the quiet.
I could go back today for any reason and know the staff would be good. Husband would like me to add that a full service menu is available and brought to you in the room for only $5, which he appreciated very much.
The nurses I had were the best-
Julianna, Dena, Kimmie, Judy, Linda, Ivan, Roberto, Holly, Silvia. . . . . "
"His nurse/medical asst is the best. He is concerned about a person of size climbing on his tables. He does his work and may not be talkative until later. He is interested in WLS and asked to be updated on my journey."
