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August 28, 2014


Title: The Cost of Cutting on Humans
Topic: Health Care
Discussed by Dr. Paul Ruggieri
with Dr. Paul Ruggieri (www.PaulRuggieri.com)

Part 1 of 2

Dr. Paul Ruggieri’s book from 2012, “Confessions of a Surgeon”, stirred national conversation about surgery and life behind the O.R. doors.

Now his new book, “The Cost of Cutting”, will be sure to cause even more curiosity. “The Cost of Cutting” is a compelling and often troubling account of real patients, real doctors, and how money influences medical decisions behind the scenes. He shows how business arrangements among hospitals, insurance companies, medical device companies, and surgeons affect patient choice, the cost of patient care, and even the quality of care.

Surgery is expensive and is one of the major factors in rising healthcare costs. In this first segment, Paul discusses the various costs associated with surgery and also surgery at every age – children, middle aged, and the elderly. Which surgeries are necessary? Who should get surgery?

Disclaimer: None of the issues or information discussed in this interview should be construed as medical advice. Always consult with your physician before making a final medical decision.



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Title: Part 2 of 2 - The Cost of Cutting on Humans
Topic: Health Care
Discussed by Dr. Paul Ruggieri
with Dr. Paul Ruggieri (www.PaulRuggieri.com)

Dr. Paul Ruggieri suggests that patients shop around and ask friends if they recommend someone before making a final medical decision, especially concerning a major decision like surgery.

Also, negotiate, negotiate, negotiate. Surgeons are selling their service to you. If they want to be your final choice, they will make it happen. Different hospitals within the same city charge different amounts for different surgeries. Find the best price for you, but don’t sacrifice quality.

Another surprising alternative many don’t consider is physical therapy, which has many benefits other than simply avoiding surgery. Don’t be afraid to talk to your doctor about your concerns. Most really do want what’s best for you, your family, and your future.

Log on to www.PaulRuggieri.com  to order a copy of his new book, “The Cost of Cutting” and for more tips.

Disclaimer: None of the issues or information discussed in this interview should be construed as medical advice. Always consult with your physician before making a final medical decision.



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April 23, 2014


Title: Having surgery? Better do your homework first.
Topic: Health Care
Discussed by Dr. Paul Ruggieri
with Dr. Paul Ruggieri (www.PaulRuggieri.com)

Part 1 of 2

You wouldn’t buy a car without negotiating the price first – sometimes for weeks or month, if you’re like me. You don’t just walk in and buy and the first cell phone you see; you research the internet, you ask friends, you listen to the salesman’s sales pitch. Most people these days wait until an item is on sale before they cave.

50,000,000 (50 million) Americans go under the knife every year. Many do little research before their surgery – if they do any research at all.

Dr. Paul Ruggieri says it is vitally important to ask question first. But what should you ask? One important question is: “Are there any nonsurgical options available?” Another: “What complications can arise during surgery and how have you personally dealt with them?”

Listen in for more.



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Title: Page 2 of 2
Topic: Health Care
Discussed by Dr. Paul Ruggieri
with Dr. Paul Ruggieri (www.PaulRuggieri.com)

How well do you know your surgeon? How well does he really know you? This person will be cutting you open, poking and prodding inside your body, and repairing or removing vital organs from your body. You don’t want just anybody doing that, do you?

Dr. Paul Ruggieri is a practicing general surgeon, writer, husband, and stepfather. His practice specializes in general, advanced minimally invasive, and thyroid surgery. Throughout his active twenty year career, Dr. Ruggieri has held department of surgery chairman positions at several community hospitals. He has also been a clinical instructor at Harvard Medical School. He is board certified in his specialty and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.

Paul Ruggieri is also author of the blockbuster book Confessions of a Surgeon, which uncovered many of the unknown secrets about American's surgeons.

Listen in as Dr. Ruggieri discusses why you should request a written quote for the cost for surgery and other questions you should ask of your surgeon. Visit his website at www.PaulRuggieri.com  for more on his book and his medical practice.



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