Dr L. Machado/sacbariatrics/program fee?

[adamsmom 4]

Hey Lana24, I am in the process of considering Dr. Koura in South Sac--Methodist Hospital. He charges a Program Fee of $750.00. It is a rip off! However, Mercy San Juan is a much better hospital than Methodist--I have been hospitalized at both --had both of my kids @MSJ--much better care than Methodist. have you considered Dr. Waldrep at Sutter Roseville?

[Lana24 10]

I did consider Dr. Waldrep but he does not take my insurance, I had surgery with Dr Koura and yes I paid his program fee, and yes I agree its a rip off because if you don't go to the support meetings you don't get a refund! Besides the program fee Dr Koura is a good doctor, he seems caring and attentative and I don't regret my decision...but I could really use $750 dollars right now! Good luck!

[montynic 1]

Dr. Machado facilitated the informational session I attended on 1/4/10. I specifically asked her about a program fee because my insurance deductible is $2,000 and there is no way I can come up with that amount plus a program fee... Dr. Machado said there is only a program fee if you have Blue Cross PPO insurance. Luckily for me, I do not have that type of insurance! Hope this information helps anyone else out there who is considering Dr. Machado and worried about a program fee.

[gMommy 4]

I am registered for Dr. Machado's Feb 7th information session. I have Blue Cross PPO. My insurance is supposed to pay for the procedure 100%. But, I still would have to pay the $2995 fee for the support and online support. The money is due in full at preop. When I told my husband about the fee he told me to find another doctor. I am really impressed so far with Dr. Machado. The website is very informative, she has performed 1000+ lap band operations and has really good reviews from past patients (found on many online dr. review sites). I'm leaning towards staying with her. But, is the fee really worth it? I don't know what the support afterwards includes. I guess I will find out at the information session.

The one thing that concerns me is if I will get approval through my insurance. The rep for Dr. Machado said if you have a BMI of 35-39 most insurance companies require two comorbid conditions. I am on high blood pressure medicine, so I definately have one. Does anyone know of a list of comorbid conditions (Blue Cross PPO approved)? My BMI is 39. At least they said if the insurance does not approve me I don't have to pay the $2995 fee.

Dr. Machado facilitated the informational session I attended on 1/4/10. I specifically asked her about a program fee because my insurance deductible is $2,000 and there is no way I can come up with that amount plus a program fee... Dr. Machado said there is only a program fee if you have Blue Cross PPO insurance. Luckily for me, I do not have that type of insurance! Hope this information helps anyone else out there who is considering Dr. Machado and worried about a program fee.