Dr Balis, Tampa Fl

[joyus12b]

Hi, I spoke with my primary care dr today, and she is workng on a referral for me to see Dr Balis in Tampa, Fl.  He is on the list here for chiari specialists.  I would love to hear from anyone who has seen/ heard of him.
Thanks
Jocelyn

[joyus12b]

Hi Cindy,
Thanks for giving me you opinion of Dr Balis.  I should find out this week if I get the referral to dr Balis. She is also trying to get a referral for me to see Dr Trumble in Orlando. My insurance is the mainnproblem at the moment. I think both are out of network so it will just take some time.  I have heard of Dr Green.  My only hesitation is the drive to see him is almost as long to go see my NS in Savannah.  A fresh opinion would be great though.  Anyway, I appreciate the info.  And I will be praying for you next week!
Jocelyn

[cynderski]

Hi Jocelyn,
I saw Dr. Balis in July of '10 after being diagnosed with Chiari 1.
I was not impressed, he is a very nice guy but very wishy-washy. I made an appointment with him based on him being listed as a "chiari specialist". I am in the Tampa Bay area so his location was very convenient. He referred me to another Neurosurgeon for a second opinion who had less experience with Chiari than himself. I ended up traveling to Miami to see Dr. Barth Green at the University of Miami and feel so blessed to have found him. I am scheduled for surgery on March 8th and i am a nervous wreck but feel very comfortable that Dr. Green will help me.
An appointment with Dr. Balis is worth a try, everyone's experience with doctors is different. Hope that helps and Good luck!
cindy