DePaul Health Center Bariatric Center

i met dr de la torre briefly he asked if i had any questions and i didn't but from my first impression he seems real nice he does make sure you know the ups and downs of the surgery i have already had my surgery done by him and i think he is excellent i had no previous illnesses or problems and the surgery didn't cause me any i recommend him to everyone i have nothing negative to say about the dr or my hospital stay only that i liked the night staff nurseys better than the day ones

HE IS VERY NICE.OFFICE IS SOMEWHAT DISORGANIZED. HE EMPHASIZES AFTERCARE VERY MUCH, AND THEY HAVE A AFTERCARE PROGRAM IN PLACE. HE MENTIONED ALL THE RISKS OF SURGERY, INCLUDING THE RARE DEATH.

I realy did like him verry much he was upfront & honest about what will take place he left nothing uncovered & i believe he takes it all so serious he is great could not say enough in his behalf.

I met with Dr. Scott last week. I really like him. He explained to me that this surgery is real surgery and can be dangerous.Also that the surgery is not a magic wand but a tool to use to obtain a healthy weight. I will add to this after my surgery. But so far I have found Dr. Scott to be professional, kind and good humored. Everyone in his office that I have met so far is very nice and they have done everything that they can to accomodate me. Lenora the OR Scheduler and Chris Klittich the Nurse Cordinator are always quick to return my calls. And treat all my questions seriously. I like everyone in this practice.

I am 4 days pre-op so my frame of reference is limited. Dr. Scott was pretty busy on the day that I initially met him, but I admired his professionalism and interest in providing me with necessary information regarding my procedure.

I finally met the infamous Dr. de la Torre yesterday. I think from all the posts I've read about him I was expecting him to be nearly rude and abrupt, but he was actually pleasant, smiling, and personable. Perhaps he seems a little shy. As everyone says, he goes over each risk and describes everything in great detail, he also balances out each risk with some good news, usually that his rate for that particular risk is very low. He lets you know why he is considered a good surgeon, but in a very humble way. I was impressed and trust him. The exam part was very fast. He simply asked a few questions such as "do you have diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol, etc."...made me wonder if he even read that packet I had to fill out and send him. My confidence in his ability has increased, and I just look forward to seeing him again in surgery! (Well, before they knock me out anyway).

I have a consultation scheduled for October 9, 2003. I've heard all good things about him. I will let you know after I meet him if they were true.

My first impression of Dr. De La Torre was positive. He is a very efficient surgeon with much experience to back up some impressive statistics. He is one of the people who pioneered the use of laproscopic surgery for gastric bypasses and I trust his skills implicitly. This impression has not changed over time.

His office staff is efficient and, once accepted as a patient, easier to access. Their office must be inundated with requests for information and until your insurance has been approved, it's difficult to speak to a live person.

His bedside manner is rather abrupt and impersonal. I would prefer a "warmer, fuzzier" manner, however, not at the expense of skills and experience. If his expertise comes with this bedside manner, I'll take it gladly.

There is a VERY structured process to go through before surgery and afterwards, as well. This includes thorough medical history and clearance, an educational seminar conducted by the doctor and his staff as well as clearance from a counselor or psychologist. After care includes follow-up visits and a support group.

The risks of the surgery were clearly laid out during a day long educational seminar. He made a cassette tape in which he stated his name, the names of the participants and the date, along with his explanation of the risks. I was required to sign a paper stating that I had been there for the explanation.

Overall, I think he is an excellent surgeon who is a perfectionist and takes pride in making sure the surgery is done properly. His surgical competence is clearly his strength, as opposed to bedside manner. My experience has been very positive and successful, to-date.

I began my journey with Midwest Bariatric in Wentzville, MO in April 2003. I called another program, St. Vincent's, the first part of June when I received denial for the long limb RNY per my ins. I was told the short limb was covered but the Midwest Center only does the longer limb.

I was surprised to get in for a group meeting w/ Dr. Evanson on 6/26. After the group meeting, those interested in surgery met individually with the doctor. Dr. Evanson was very personable and seems to care about treating those w/obesity. St. Vincent's has a new bariatric wing and the facility is nice.

I was clicking along with this program when my appeal for long limb RNY and treatment with Dr. de la Torre went through. I went to a group meeting on 8/14/03 at Midwest Bariatric. I have a date! 9/15/03 at DePaul Hospital. I am impressed with Dr. de la Torre's experience. That's why I contacted his office in the first place. Seems I come full circle. I'm so happy to be treating with this doctor. The program education is put together well and I feel I am in good hands with this team.

I he is now in st.louis part of the new start team!!!!!!!! yah for me!!