"It took me several months before I could see Dr. Cribbins. My appointment was 10/31/02 and was a combination mini-seminar and consultation. The waiting room is small but has ample sized chairs. I signed in at 9am and was presented the forms to fill out, paid my copay, received about a ten page handout,and then chatted with the other patients who wanted to become losers. Dr. Cribbins was running a little late because he was in surgery. He gave a small presentation, drew diagrams, discussed the three types of surgeries he performs, LapBand, RNY, and VGB. Then I was weighed and placed into an examination room for my consultation. I had just a few questions as I had been to other seminars. I found Dr. Cribbins young, but every doctor seems to be now that I have turned 50. He was very professional! We discussed my concerns for RNY vs VGB. He assured me that I would do well with either. The office is clear that you should not call them because as soon as the insurance request is filed and answered you would be contacted for pre op testing. At this time his office is scheduling surgeries in 1/03. There was no discussion of a support group after surgery. I wish he had spend time with us as a group to answer questions because I am sure I forgot some questions because I was so excited. Also I was not told if I would be coming back to the office again before surgery.
12/22/02 I can't believe how quickly this has gone. The down side is his office does not discuss when the surgery or preops will be, they just sent you a letter telling you the dates and times. My psych evaluation is tommorrow. My pre op testing is on 1/14/03 which will include labs, eks, chest xray, upper GI and gall bladder sonogram. My preop with Dr. Cribbins is on 1/20/03. I will have to pay $285 at this visit. I am so excited and nervous. Next to my daughter this is the best Christmas present ever! I will get my life back! "
