Gerald Bechamps, M.D. Bariatrics Bariatric Center

I have only met Dr. Bechamps one time so far -- I have another appointment schedule for 04/22/03. Prior to meeting Dr. Bechamps, I have heard about him from friends that have either worked at his office, or have had surgery performed on either themselves or family members -- everything I heard was nothing but positive -- Dr. Bechamps has a great reputation in this area. When I met Dr. Bechamps, he was very pleasant in his demeanor -- all was very thorough in explaining everything about Gastric By-Pass surgery to me (pros, cons, risks, etc). He took the time to really get an understanding of my medical history. My wife was impressed with his demeanor as well. Dr. Bechamps explained that his staff would prepare letters to the Insurance Companies. He encouraged me to attend a Support Group at the Winchester Medical Center -- which I have attended one session, and plan to attend at least one more before my surgery. He also suggested that I read everything that I could find about Gastric By-Pass -- he wanted to make sure that I was as informed as possible. He told me to not just read about the celebrities... because they tend to over-glamorize. He wanted to make sure that I understood that this was definitely not cosmetic surgery. The only "bad" thing that I can say about Dr. Bechamps and his staff (and it really isn't "bad") is that it seemed to take forever to hear back from them after my first consult (11/25/02) -- didn't hear anything until February. Then I was sent a letter explaining why things were taking so long -- and an apology for the amount of time that had gone by. It was just a week or so afterwards that I received letters from the insurance companies. And after a few days Dr. Bechamps staff were contacting me to begin scheduling appointments. I have rambled on -- I will add more info after my surgery, regarding bedside manner, the surgery, etc.

My first impression of Dr. Bechamps was relief. He has an extremely busy office and tends to run behind, but the moment I met him, I understood why. He takes time to speak with his patients and appreciates their questions and/or concerns.

His office is wonderful. I found that they really work with you get through all of the insurance rigors and to make each expeirence pleasant.

I have not seen the surgeon yet. He comes highly recommended, and his staff have been very helpful in all the questions I have. Once I have seen him I will update.

Dr. Bechamps explained things in great detail to me and gave me my options. He was kind, understanding and very patient with my questions.

His insurance lady, Jackie, was absolutely wonderful. She contacted me to let me know my information was faxed to the insurance company and when I could expect a reply.

I enjoyed my first visit. I felt they made me comfortable and informed. The women at ehe desk wasn't as friendly as I had been lead to believe.. A little cold. The people in the waiting room were great. It felt like a support group. One girl even showed everyone in the lobby her scar. The staff wanted to make sure i understood everything. The nurse spent time explaining what would be happening to me over the next month or so.