GrownStatus

Hello Everyone, I attended my orientation this past weekend (01/22/2011). I went to the Weight Loss Center in San Bernardino Ca. Everyone was very nice there and seemed to know the process of how things work with my insurance. I go for my sleep apnea test on 02/12/2011 and another testing on 02/19/2011. I have one big concern after finding out who my doctor will be. I was told that Dr. Atul Madan will be my surgeon because he is the only one who has the privileges at a Center of Excellence hospital (Marina del Rey) that my insurance requires for the procedure to be performed at. After doing some research I found out that someone has died last month in his care. I know that things like this can happen and it may be due to something not related to the Lap Band. I was hoping that I can get some input from other patients that has dealt with this weight loss center in San Bernardino or who has had this doctor. Thanks!! Amanda

Hello, I was just wondering if anyone had their surgery at Marina Del Rey Hospital in California. My insurance is Blue Shield of California and I have to pay 10% of the hospital fees. So I am kind of looking for a number that I need to be saving for. My surgeon is Dr. Atul Madan. Thanks!! Amanda

I am so frustrated... I get a call last night saying that my last pre op testing that was scheduled for today is cancelled due to my insurance (Blue Shield of Ca POS) not approving the cost. I know it must be because of the fact that the facility is not a COE... so I am taking this as a sign to try to go through my PCP again to get a referal as the cost will be much lower to use my health plan as a HMO instead of a PPO... But if that does not work I was wondering if anyone can refer a Doctor that takes Blue Shield of Ca and is a Prefered Provider. Also I live in the Palm Springs area.... but will travel to a reasonable distance.... Thanks!!

Thanks that helps... Good luck on your journey!!

Thanks.... I will do that....

Thank you for your input.... i appreciate it... Good luck on your journey... :-)

Thanks for the input. Do you mind me asking what insurance you have? I am trying to get an idea on what lies ahead of me. I do wish you the best of luck on this new chapter of life. Keep me posted!! :-)