Sunday, September 20, 2009

To: Whom it may concern

From Steve Close

RE: Superlative health care in Santa Barbara.

Due to a problem with frequent night urination, I made a request on Tuesday, September 15, 2009 to see a Urologist at the Urology Center in Santa Barbara, CA. I was subsequently scheduled to see Dr. Weinstein at 1100 AM on Weds 9-16. Dr. Weinstein made a preliminary diagnosis that urine flow was partially blocked by an enlarged prostate. Appointments were made for that afternoon for a blood panel to determine kidney function at Pacific Diagnostic Labs and for an ultrasound exam of kidneys and bladder at Cottage Center For Advanced Imaging. The results of these tests were completed and sent to Dr. Weinstein by 400PM that same afternoon. Based on these tests and a more complete exam by Dr. Weinstein, surgery was scheduled to be performed the following Monday at Cottage Hospital.

An appointment was scheduled for 9-18 pre op information at Cottage Hospital at 200PM. The volunteer coordinator was very friendly and efficient as she coordinated my visit to lab for blood and other tests, to the person in charge of collecting insurance information and to a nurse who ran some tests and gave me information on what to expect on surgery day. Again everyone was friendly, conscientious and efficient in completing their tasks. I was through with this phase of preparation by 400PM.

Throughout this speedy process, all health care providers and their staff were friendly, efficient and competent. In the days leading up to my operation, Dr. Weinstein promptly answered my numerous e mails re the procedure and addressed all my concerns. I couldn’t have asked for better service.

Monday Sept 21 arrived at Cottage at 700 AM for surgery. Waiting was minimal and surgery began approximately 930 AM. Operation went well according to Dr. Weinstein who continues to be a 5 star physician in re communication, diligence and skill. Hospital staff were attentive and caring. I was released approximately 130PM Tuesday afternoon.

The only revelation and minor set back is that my bladder has become enlarged over time. This means despite a now clear open urine pathway, my bladder does not void completely. I have been instructed in how to self catheterize, and it’s hoped within a few weeks my bladder will function normally.

9/27/09 I have been self catheterizing since Tuesday 9-22-09. The last day or two I’ve noticed dramatic improvement in that I am emptying my bladder more completely naturally and catheterizing significantly less volume. This suggests my bladder is functioning better, day by day. Dr. Weinstein said when I catheter less than 200-225ml consistently, I may be able to stop.

This testifies to the body’s miraculous ability to heal itself with help from excellent doctors and staff utilizing the latest medical technologies.

10/8/2009 Since entry of 9/27, self catheters produced less urine to the point of typically below 50 mls. I tapered off the procedure to less than once a day. Appointment with Dr. Weinstein today revealed that my kidneys and bladder were healthy and functioning normally. No further need to self catheter. Will have follow up exam Jan 13, 2010. I couldn’t be more pleased with my rapid health recovery and with superb health service provided by Dr. Weinstein, et al.

　Steve Close

You may know I recently underwent prostate surgery to clear pathway for urine flow and related problems. No cancer, no need to remove prostate. My appointment with Dr. Weinstein today revealed healthy and normal function of my kidneys and bladder. No need to self catheter, as everything is now functioning normally. I couldn't be more pleased with the outcome. Don't hesitate to see a urologist if you ever experience problems in that regard.

I'm back on the bike; standing position only ;) 　

Steve Close