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Linda, Debbie, Bill, Pamme et al. I had DBS surgery 1 1/2 years ago and am pleased with the results. Except for some dystonia in my right (less affected) arm my symptoms are significantly reduced. I have no off periods at all and I walk with a walker where before I was wheel chair bound. (and had preexisting weakness in my left leg due to polio as a kid.) It takes time to adjust the IPG (pulse generators) correctly. Also re insurance - some will pay and some will not. I believe medicare will pay but I am not certain of this. Charlie At 05:33 PM 11/3/00 -0500, you wrote: >I have a question - Since DBS has not yet received FDA approval, and I >assume is still considered experimental in the US, how difficult is it to >be accepted for the surgery? How do you find a qualified surgeon? Do you >have to be enrolled in a study? Does Medicare, Medicaid or any private >insurance presently cover the costs of the surgery, the device and the >follow up adjustments? >Ok - that was actually more than 1 question, but would appreciate answers >to any or all of them. >Thanks, >Linda Charles T. Meyer, M.D. Middleton, WI PD DX 12 years (at age 44) Age 56