I've been out of commission for a little while because of some gastrointestinal issues. At first I thought I had eaten something that disagreed with me but as the days passed and things got worse rather than better it became clear that something was more seriously amiss. I found a gastroenterologist at Monte Sinai who was able to see me on the day I went to the hospital, and then scheduled me for a sonogram, an endoscopic exam, and a colonoscopy that very evening. He sent a biopsy to the lab and prescribed medications.
I spent $590 for everything--the consultation, colonoscopy, endoscopic exam, sonogram, lab, and four medications. The whole process took one day and as of a couple of day ago I'm feeling back to normal. I am really relieved this took place in Ecuador rather than in the States, where it would have cost a heck of a lot more and where the scheduling for the series of exams would have been far less streamlined. As far as these things go, it couldn't have been smoother.
Unfortunately the doctor doesn't speak English so I don't know if a recommendation would be useful. However, just in case you're ever in need of a great Spanish-speaking gastroenterologist:
Dr. Coronel
Monte Sinai
Office Hours: 11AM-1PM 5PM-7PM
(Note that you don't make an appointment, just go to the floor receptionist and she'll sign you in. There was no one ahead of me that day and I imagine that because he's a specialist it's likely that there won't be more than a couple of people in the waiting room at any time.)
The beautiful sunflowers above were a get well gift from Shelley and Brian, who were super supportive during this time. Thanks also to my friend Ossie for keeping me amused!
I promise postings of our weekly outings will resume sometime soon.
8 comments:
We are so glad o hear that you are feeling better.
That's grea you're feeling better. The flowers are beautiful and your photographic skills give them a 3D Look.
Mick and I aere glad to hear you are feeling better.
Lourdes,
We are so happy to hear that you are feeling better.
Thank you, guys! Funny that it wasn't until I stopped working that a lifetime of stress caught up with me! I am thankful to be in a place (both a point in my life and a location) where I have the time and the right conditions to take care of it : )
My husband had to take his brother to the doctor's today, so he took your list of medical procedures to ask him what his estimate of the costs would be. He said that first off that the only way this could be done in one day without an appointment would be for you to come through the emergency room ($1500 right off the bat) and the the total cost would probably be around $6,000 or more. Glad to hear that you are now feeling better. Mary
Wowee, that's what I mean! My deductible alone in the States would have been more than the total cost, not to mention the cost of the insurance premium. What makes it even more remarkable is that the quality of care is first rate.
Oh my goodness, Lourdes! I'm so glad you're feeling better! The sunflowers are gorgeous! Un abrazo fuerte!
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