Advice on selecting a sugrgeon!

[fattymcfatterson 107]

I have a meeting at the office on Monday with Dr. Craig Ferrera of Fort Worth.

I also have a meeting on Thursday with Dr. Wade Barker in Dallas.

WHat is the best advice you can give me on making a decision? They are both in network and work with my insurance. Dr. Ferrera is only 45 minutes away from my house compared to 1.5 hours with Dr. Barker! DO they let you know your out of pocket expenses at your consultation? That of course would make a difference... And what about the anesthesiologist? Is there a way to make sure you get one who is in your network? I have NEVER had any type of surgery before so I have no idea how this works. But I do know I do not want a big BILL that could have been avoided if I did more research. I have also read that Dr. Barker's office is slightly unorganized and plan on being there a long time. That is not encouraging.. But, if it is because he is the bast, I have to consider that. I have questions for both of them, but if any of you have any questions you had wished you asked before making your surgeon decision, please let me know!!!!!

Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Douceur72 3]

Once you've met them both, your gut will guide you. Take all of your questions and see how each one answers. It's such a personal choice...for instance I know people who could care less about bedside manner i.e. don't mind being rushed, or a disorganized office, if they know the doctor is the best of the best. Other folks would rather have a very personable doctor who will show genuine interest in them as a person, even if they have less experience.

I am not sure about the insurance part, but I've had surgery 7 times and have never had an issue with an anesthesiologist not being in network. Since most hospitals or surgical suites have several in the ORs each day I'm not sure how difficult it would be to find out ahead of time who will be in your procedure, or if it's billed as a hospital charge or what...good question really, maybe someone on this site knows something about insurance/hospital billing and can answer that question.