DC area Patient Experience

[MrBeeswax 1]

I have just started a program at Medstar Washington Hospital Center. The surgeon reviews well, but I am concerned because it feels like I'm on a conveyer belt w/o much support. I don't expect support from the surgeon, but there's no one to guide me through the process. The office staff seem to do great administrative work, but I feel like I'm on my own emotionally/care-wise. The classes are through an app and the support groups are monthly only via MS team and during the work day. I am wondering if I should find another program has anyone experienced the program at George Washington University, Sibley Memorial, Howard University, or Virginia Hospital Center. Are they more personal patient care. The current program I'm in feels like I'm just a commodity. Or is this level of detachment and isolation normal? If so I'm not sure what to do.

[WendyJane 11]

If you are not comfortable with the team that is supposed to be supporting you and guiding you through the process, I would do more research and find a group of people that show compassion and care. It took me 4 years and I found a place down in Tidewater, Virginia and they have been so very helpful, supportive and live support groups. Unjury.Com has support groups live and I'm a paying member of BariNation.com and I get so much support it is crazy. I talk to my pals I have made, and compare with what my team tells me and they are always spot on. Sounds like your program is very impersonal, that's sad, find a caring place to get what you are seeking.

Wendy

[ShoppGirl 5,057]

You could mention to them that you feel like you just need a little more support and that you have other questions and would be willing to pay for an extra appointment here and there with the NP or PA so that you can get the support that you need. That worked for me. But do your research if you have other options. I would go ahead and make appointments now so that you have them coming up by the time you decide what to do. Just be sure to cancel then with notice if you don’t end up switching or for whatever appointments you don’t need so they can give them to someone else.

Edited March 13 by ShoppGirl

[summerseeker 2,282]

You are right in changing if you are not comfortable with your team.

I needed more support than i could imagine before and after this surgery. This forum is great but as every team has its own 'rules' and you need there input.

I had my dieticians personal phone number, I thought that was above and beyond caring. I needed her help a few times too. Eating and drinking early out was very difficult and I needed medical reassurance.