[socrafty]

Hello from a fellow Buckeye! I am also with Medical Mutual/First Health since retiring from a school system. Finding a GOOD doctor was quite a chore for me. It took me almost 2 years to make a decision and give someone a try. I would see my Cleveland Clinic Doctor when we went back to check on our house in Cleveland. We are using Premier Medical, seeing Dr. Shah at the Santa Barbara location. I have been to him twice and he reminds me of my doctor of 15 years in Cleveland. My friend sees Dr. Gegaj and she likes him a lot, Dr. Butt is no longer there. I have heard the support staff (billing, returning phone calls, etc.) are not very helpful at Premier, but personally have not had to deal with them...yet. I can tell you if you need an appointment that day, they will refer you to the Urgent Care. Normally I would have a problem with that, but figure my doctor is in the same building should a big problem arise. I would recommend you try to set up appointments/meet and greets with some of the choices you have.

As for a GYN, as of March 1st, Dr. Nwaubani no longer takes First Health. I tried her a month ago. I am seeing Caroline Mathis, the PA in Dr. Steepy's office. I was told Dr. Steepy is only doing surgery. I really liked Ms. Mathis and felt very comfortable with her from day 1 (have been to her 2 times in the past month).

I tell my friends, my biggest problem in TV was finding a doctor and a hair stylist! I am keeping my fingers crossed that I have finally found both. I hope this helped some. If you have any more questions I may help with, feel free to send me a PM. Good luck!