PROSTABLOG NZ: John Montgomerie had his prostatectomy via robotic method in Auckland, NZ, in mid-February and we asked him to report progress.
His report shows he is recovering well…and he has some revealing comments about insurance:
I am doing well. Had to use incontinent pads for four weeks and still not 100%, (maybe I should try the ones with wings?). Have a problem with leakage when I cough, sneeze, etc.
We have a spa, which is set at 41.5 degrees and it has proved to be a Godsend. Use it several times daily.
I can now use the motor bike without too much pain, and I’m walking 2-3km twice a day, which is a big help,
At two to three weeks after the operation, I was able to do a lot of farm jobs, which was a big help for my dear wife – and my self esteem.
At six weeks post-op, I’m back into full-on farm work, and able to drive a tractor for a few hours at a time.
Had a good PSA result, 0.2, which is a lot better than 5.8 before the op.
Insurance paid all of the costs ($45,000 plus) without stuffing me about, which was great. I am insured with AA Health and they were very helpful.
I would be happy to recommend them. Some insurance companies do not pay for the full cost of robotic surgery (Southern Cross is one such company). And the patient has to pay $12,000 to $15,000 before the operation’
Good one, John. Glad to see you’re progressing brilliantly. Interesting stuff about the iunsurance cover, as well.
Prostablog 
What a great post, especially since Mr. Montgomerie was willing to discuss his prostatecomy so openly.
One of the major benefits of robot prostatectomy is the ability to preserve sexual function.
It would be interesting to hear from Mr. Montgomerie on this subject in a later post.
With the insurance overhaul and ObamaCare herr in the US, it will be interesting to see if US prostate cancer patients will still get the same excellent care Mr. Montgomerie has received.
I wish Mr. Montgomerie continued recovery and great health!
-Ken Weiss
My top scar is off center. Dad-gum…I wish it were centered. I just looking at it this morning… on the Obomacare issue… when you read articles that emphasize the “cost ” of things and that it is not feasible or fiscally responsible to check 100 to find one, those are code terms for rationed care and prostate cancer more than any will be scrutinized in that light. jm