Independence Health System Hospital

I've only had first interview. Everything seemed very positive and they were very nice.
I think they covered most everything I was expecting to hear. I had input from Rose Collins who is a member here. Some of the pre-op testing will not be a problem because of my co morbidities I've already had them or have them on going. I believe they have alot of experience with my insurance carrier ( Aetna/Us Healthcare )and feel I will have no problems with getting the OK. I will be getting a letter from my PCP, Endocrinologist,and cardiologist supporting my case. I have current EKG's,but PCP said he will give new one. I will need chest X-ray, and Gallbladder ultrasound, and recent blood work shortly before surgery.
As far risks; they covered very thoroughly. my feelings are if I die, during or after, I've died trying to save my life.
I'm looking forward to the challenge. When I got my cpap machine it changed and probably saved my life. I'm looking forward to this doing the same.

During my consultation appointment, I immediatly felt confident with Dr. Gagne. He answered all my questions in detail. He made me aware of the risks, and gave numbers concerning his record. He discribed complications and what was done to correct the situation. Because I was border-line on the BMI chart, and had no other existing problems, he felt I was a good candidate. He gave me alot of printed information to read on my own about the procedure and after care. Everthing went exactly as he said it would. I had no unexpected problems. He has a great support staff, and encouraged me to call any time. The first couple of weeks after the surgery, I called a number of times, and his assistant Julie called me back almost immediatly. He doesn't do alot of pre-testing. He doesn't feel it's necessary. At my 3 mon. check-up, his assistant went over any food questions I had, and told me they will be starting a support group. I think Dr. Gagne is a great doctor, and I had a good experience.

Dr. Gagne was patient and kind. I asked him about other surgeries he has done and his medical training. He answered all questions thoroughly and with patience. He acknowledged my concerns and addressed them. He explained his committment to laproscopic surgery, as laproscopic surgery is his specialty. He explained his educated opinion on the different weight loss surgeries available. He was not at all pushy. He took all the time I needed during our meeting. He also offered a list of names and numbers of patients who have had laproscopic roux en y surgery with him. He stated that I would need to follow up with him for at least a year after surgery. He addressed all the risks verbally and with written literature. The office staff was friendly. -- And amazingly enough he was punctual. -- Not a usual physician trait. However I was a 9 am appointment. Also, he must have received an A+ in bedside manner,at least that is my opinion thus far.