[Maria]

The US has a way of dealing with Medicine that I think is unique to the US and our reimbursement systems. I have gone to Mexico for medical consultations and paid so little and gotten so much in terms of politeness, time, consideration, explanation, etc.

I consulted with a number of spine surgeons regarding a 3rd spine surgery but because WC would not pay for it out of the country and I felt that what I really given in the US was based upon what would be reimbursed thru WC I didn't feel comfortable going for a 3rd spine surgery given what I was told.

The 2nd surgical opinion Neurosurgeon WC sent me to that Mark accompanied to the visit was probably the most thorough US doctor I had consulted with since my 1st spine surgery in 1989. He wouldn't have been the surgeon to do the surgery however and even though the surgeon that WC ultimately authorized re ADR at L4 and fusion at L5S1 I didn't feel comfortable with him even though at one time I would have jumped to have surgery performed by him.

So I too agree you get what you pay for although I have to say one USA spine surgeon called me back from his home after I had called the office back in 2001 and asked his office secretary about 3 level global fusions as this surgeon had (has) an incredible reputation and the guy totally surprised me by calling me back from his home at my home and spending a half hour on the phone with me asking why I was considering a 3 level global fusion and while offering to see me if I wanted a consultation with me also turned me on to the idea of going thru Pain Management to see if that would be helpful.

To this day I am so thankful for a Dr. Whitman (Pain Management) that I encountered on a Massachusetts General Spine Forum that actually answered people's posts and was just a great contribution to the site I thought as well as Dr. Dillon in Southern California that was part of the Kerlan Jobe Spine Clinic (the surgeon that returned the call to me from his home after a work day). They both gave me great insight into why I might want to keep checking things out before committing to a 3 level global fusion and I am so glad they did.

And this is also where I first encountered Mark (mmglobal) before he had his lumbar ADRs done!

Yes this was all free though I guess what I'm saying is checking things out, calling offices, talking to people and surgeons everything to me was a big part of making my decisions thus far regarding more spine surgery. I do believe you get what you pay for in terms of consultations however I also believe there are some incredible people out there that give of their free time willingly and they can give some incredible insight and direction as well. Mark Mintzer (mmglobal) also helped me by listening to me and helping me with my WC consultations and just understanding the whole process from inside out since he has been thru it himself as well as all the spine specialists connections he has and his ability to truly be an advocate in this field.

Another important thing I looked at when considering surgery which Vicki I think you addressed is how do I feel with the manner in which I'm treated by the office staff. Are they relaying messages/questions I have? Are things getting done in a timely manner insurance wise? If I think I'm having difficulties before surgery me personally I'm definitely not going into with this surgeon because pre surgery is like the courtship.. after surgery is the sealed deal that's already paid for .. though I expect to be treated the same as before the surgery (and payment).

Good luck Victoria. I hope you will find the best surgeon you are able to help you with your specific needs. Please do keep us posted if you have the time/desire.

Maria