BajaNomad - Fidepaz Hospital

Fidepaz Hospital

BMG - 1-29-2009 at 03:49 PM

The 'Purple' Hospital in La Paz.

As of last night, we can now recommend going to the Fidepaz Hospital if you are ever in need of medical care. They seem to have an efficient and caring staff that see to your needs immediately during an emergency.

Linguine somehow took a header while riding her bike. Something about the brakes not working as she skidded the tire in the layer of dirt and sand on the road. It must have looked like a slow motion fall as we were barely rolling at the time, but, alas, I was in front of her. She was up from her spread eagle position before I could get the camera focused. (Just kidding! That would have been insensitive.)

She could tell immediately that something was wrong with her wrist when she couldn't pick up her shoe that had flown off in the accident. No other clothing, jewelry or body parts came off, thank goodness. She was amazingly unblemished other than a little dust on her clothes.

We headed for home looking for a cab along the way. I thought it would be best to have her take a taxi to the hospital while I take the bikes home and grab the car. Took us about 10 minutes to get home and never saw a cab even at the usual places along the way.

They took her immediately to an examining room after only asking her name. The doctor was there quickly and and ordered up an injection for the pain. About 5 minutes later she was getting x-rays that confirmed a double fracture of her wrist.

They called in a specialist and he said they were clean breaks so that looked good. He put her in a temporary cast. The swelling was pretty bad by now but the pain medication had taken some of the edge off. She still wasn't too happy when the doctor put a slight bend in her wrist so it would start setting properly.

The doc prescribed some medication which we filled right outside the door of the hospital at the pharmacy. We also got her an elegant navy blue sling (should match every outfit she owns.)

Total bill (hospital, 2 doctors, x-rays, medications and designer sling) - M$2300. We could have saved M$100 but she resisted using her bra as a sling. Seems to me like it already does a similar job but I didn't argue the point too long.

We were out in about an hour. She is still in pain but did get some sleep last night. Looks like everything will be fine if she can stand my cooking for the next 6 weeks or so.

We go back Monday evening for a shiny new hard cast.

Barry A. - 1-29-2009 at 03:58 PM

That is truly amazing---------my condolences to Mrs. BMG

I am totally unfamiliar with the Health Care system in Mexico----------in a nutshell, how do they do this so cheaply???

Barry

DianaT - 1-29-2009 at 03:58 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by BMG
The 'Purple' Hospital in La Paz.

We also got her an elegant navy blue sling (should match every outfit she owns.)

Total bill (hospital, 2 doctors, x-rays, medications and designer sling) - M$2300. We could have saved M$100 but she resisted using her bra as a sling. Seems to me like it already does a similar job but I didn't argue the point too long.

Really sorry to hear about her accident---OUCH, but also glad it was not more serious.

I really do feel bad for what happened, but the last of what you wrote was really funny.

And, when she is well, I have a suggestion---maybe she could use her bra as a sling-shot and I have a suggestion for a target. :lol:

Glad you received good care and sure hope she heals QUICKLY.

Diane

Paula - 1-29-2009 at 04:54 PM

Fortunately it only takes one arm to lift a margarita (well-there may be some exceptions), a beer or a glass of wine to take the edge off the pain, and enjoy the recovery.

I'm glad it wasn't more serious and hope she is all healed up and typing away here on Nomads very quickly!

And I secong Diane's idea about the slingshot-- you're having way too much fun at her expense, BMG :dudette:

edit for very sloppy typing!

[Edited on 1-30-2009 by Paula]

longlegsinlapaz - 1-29-2009 at 05:03 PM

Poor Ana!!! I could say more here about the need for that sling...BUT after our recent day spent together...I still feel guilty for forcing her into what conceivable could have erupted into a ugly translation session...I'll be nice. :lol:

I'm kinda surprised that they charged that much...I've paid less for being admitted in anaphylactic shock, and getting a pretty decent meal thrown in as well! But I'm more surprised she did that kinda damage falling from the low height of that tiny bike! It must be time to put her training wheels back on! :biggrin:

You'll be treating her nicer once she gets that HARD CAST on; she'll be able to whop you up along side your knee & she won't feel the pain you'll feel!

I take it it was her right wrist? Poor Ana, you have my sympathies, but on the up side, you probably can look forward to eating out quite a bit if it means he-who-shall-remain-nameless can forego cooking and clean-up! :bounce:

BajaDove - 1-29-2009 at 05:31 PM

Having sampled some of Steve's cooking I don't think she'll starve. She can use the line so many husband woe their wives with. " I hate to go out because you cook so good I'd only be disappointed."

BMG - 1-29-2009 at 05:50 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Barry A.
That is truly amazing---------my condolences to Mrs. BMG

I am totally unfamiliar with the Health Care system in Mexico----------in a nutshell, how do they do this so cheaply???

Barry

So far we've been pleased with all the medical, dental and eyeglass services we've used here in La Paz and over on the mainland. My views on the cost situation probably belongs in off-topic. Just ask yourself how much of the costs in the U.S. are directly related to insurance, legal, regulations and mandates.

Quote:

Originally posted by jdtrotter
And, when she is well, I have a suggestion---maybe she could use her bra as a sling-shot and I have a suggestion for a target.

Suggestions are not being solicited at this time. And I would never refer to a lady's brassiere as a sling-shot! (Or, at least, not again after the last time.)

Quote:

Originally posted by Paula
Fortunately it only takes one arm to lift a margarita (well-there may be some exceptions)

She prefers the 'exceptions' and they are 2 handers. I guess the straw will work.

Linguine and friend hefting some margies in unbroken wrist days.

Quote:

Originally posted by longlegsinlapaz
I'm kinda surprised that they charged that much...I've paid less for being admitted in anaphylactic shock, and getting a pretty decent meal thrown in as well!

I was not allowed to negotiate. Something about being 'insensitive' regarding photos, slings, bicycling skills, etc, etc, etc.

Quote:

Originally posted by BajaDove
Having sampled some of Steve's cooking I don't think she'll starve.

What I cook, I do reasonably well, but my menu is limited. Today's lunch was tortillas, turkey bacon (she bought) and an omelet - sauteed onion, red pepper, grated Parmesan cheese and avocado. Dinner is take-out pizza.

Natalie Ann - 1-29-2009 at 06:11 PM

Sorry to hear about the spill, Ana. Hope you're finished with the pain and feeling better soon.
I've heard that folks with broken wrists should do absolutely no work until completely healed. How fortunate you have he-who-shall-not-be-named to take over all household tasks.

About Fidepaz Hospital.... it's an excellent treatment place. My dear friend was taken there by ambulance from San Bartolo after a stomach ulcer ruptured. She was very close to death upon arrival. A fine team of nurses, techs and surgeons went right to work and saved her life.

My friend loved her doctor and all the staff. When she was released after 3 weeks, she returned to family in Oregon to complete her recovery. The Oregon doctor told her the surgery had been very well done. Said he could not have done a better job. When she told him the low cost of her entire treatment (I don't remember what it was), he said that it was at least $50,000 less than same experience would have cost in the U.S.

nena

BMG - 1-30-2009 at 09:18 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Natalie Ann
I've heard that folks with broken wrists should do absolutely no work until completely healed.

That didn't last too long. She was up this morning flitting around the kitchen with a cloth cleaning. I had to tell her to go sit down and enjoy her coffee. (So I could enjoy mine.)

Quote:

Originally posted by morgaine7
...as long as there's bacon in the house, I know Ana won't starve. When are visiting hours, and how's the red wine supply?

What part of the turkey do they get bacon from?

10AM - 8PM

Wine supply is diminishing but I know where to get more.

Update

BMG - 2-3-2009 at 11:31 AM

Linguine went in last night and had her temporary cast/splint removed and a new, lighter hard cast put on. Everything is looking fine but then the itching hasn't started yet.

The initial charge for the hospital, doctors, x-rays, etc came to U$146.05 on our AMEX. The orthopedic doctor charged another M$1200 last night for the visit and new cast.

oldlady - 2-3-2009 at 12:11 PM

It won't itch if absolutely no moisture gets inside.
And, while I know this is verboten, I have a large collection of non-metallic knitting needles that can serve many purposes...I'd say a number 7 or 9 ought to fit the biill.

BajaGringo - 2-3-2009 at 12:18 PM

Really sorry about the accident but glad to hear you got great (and quick!) care. Sounds like double Cadillac's are in order for awhile to keep the pain away...

:biggrin:

Katiejay99 - 2-3-2009 at 12:21 PM

Hey Baja Gringo - I can actually stand to read your posts with that new face. I love it!!

Mrs. BMG - sorry to hear about your fall and I hope you get to feeling better soon. I love Fidepaz and have always been treated well there and never heard a complaint from anyone.

[Edited on 2-3-2009 by Katiejay99]

BMG - 2-3-2009 at 01:16 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by oldlady
It won't itch if absolutely no moisture gets inside.

Too late.

Might take you up on that knitting needle.

Quote:

Originally posted by BajaGringo
Sounds like double Cadillac's are in order for awhile to keep the pain away...

I wish you didn't live so far away.

oldlady - 2-3-2009 at 01:27 PM

Heh, heh..finally...a gadget I have that she doesn't....I'll be over with a care package.

Bajahowodd - 2-3-2009 at 05:26 PM

So, is it any wonder that La Paz is perpetually listed on various "Best Places to Retire lists? Healthcare is considered to be top notch on several surveys.

BajaGringo - 2-3-2009 at 06:05 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by BMG
Sounds like double Cadillac's are in order for awhile to keep the pain away...

I wish you didn't live so far away.

As soon as we get the new place finished we are talking about making a trip south to relax for a few weeks. If we cross paths I promise to share my special recipe and even tend bar myself for a couple of rounds...
:yes:

Quote:

Originally posted by Katiejay99
Hey Baja Gringo - I can actually stand to read your posts with that new face. I love it!!

Since this is my REAL face I guess I'll take that as a compliment???
:?:

lingililingili - 2-3-2009 at 06:19 PM

i had crochet hooks, they just weren't long enough!

Quote:

Originally posted by oldlady
Heh, heh..finally...a gadget I have that she doesn't....I'll be over with a care package.

lingililingili - 2-3-2009 at 06:20 PM

THANKS EVERYBODY for all the good wishes!

BMG - 2-3-2009 at 06:33 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by BajaGringo
As soon as we get the new place finished we are talking about making a trip south to relax for a few weeks. If we cross paths I promise to share my special recipe and even tend bar myself for a couple of rounds...

Sounds good to me. Let us know when you're in town.

Bernardo - 2-4-2009 at 12:12 AM

This hospital has a great reputation. I had an aquaintance who had a complete hip replacement there and it was very well completed - and inexpensive too.

Last May while fishing outside of Los Muertos I hooked a nice yellow tail - while bringing it into the boat, the fish thrashing around managed to impail my achillies tendon with the back set of hooks (while he was still on the hook!). Needless to say, I mentioned a lot of religious words and words describing the fish's lineage to a mother dog - long story short - wound got infected and I went to the Purple hospital. Great care! Very friendly, English speaking and quick! All is well now and the yellowtail is long since consumed.

Don't hesitate to use this hospital.

I live in La Paz six months a year and have gotten to know personally some of the professionals at the hospital. Great people!

Hope all is well with your wrist now.

:smug:

Thank you.

BMG - 2-4-2009 at 08:50 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by oldlady
Heh, heh..finally...a gadget I have that she doesn't....I'll be over with a care package.

Looks like the knitting needles are just the ticket for getting down inside the cast.

The 'care' package was greatly appreciated. Not too sure about the spaghetti you left though. It was the first time I ever made spaghetti that didn't come out of a can and weren't circular in shape. The noodles were quite crunchy even after pouring the sauce over them and letting them soak in it before microwaving.

Quote:

Originally posted by morgaine7
Another suggestion: get some men's cotton tube socks (BMG's, for example :lol:

), cut the toe out for your fingers, and use them as slipcovers to keep the cast clean. Mine got so filthy after a few days that I was embarrassed to go anywhere until I thought of that.

A great idea. The news cast is quite rough and I'm sure she won't like the idea of getting it dirty. We'll go out today and get her some designer tube socks to match the sling.

oldlady - 2-4-2009 at 11:33 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by BMG

The 'care' package was greatly appreciated. Not too sure about the spaghetti you left though. It was the first time I ever made spaghetti that didn't come out of a can and weren't circular in shape. The noodles were quite crunchy even after pouring the sauce over them and letting them soak in it before microwaving.

.

The "noodles, Chef Boy-ar-dee, were Linguini, and while not a purist's choice for Bolognese, they seemed appropriate in this case. It never occurred to me that a diligent researcher like yourself would not read the package, or that the other Linguini would let you oaf it out like that!

DianaT - 2-4-2009 at 01:05 PM

Quote:

BMG - 2-4-2009 at 02:59 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by morgaine7

Another suggestion: get some men's cotton tube socks (BMG's, for example :lol:

), cut the toe out for your fingers, and use them as slipcovers to keep the cast clean.

Kate,

We bought some tube socks today since all of my socks are shorties and have a dingle ball on the heel. Made her the sleeves for the cast. Looks like they are going to work great. Now she wants some tube socks in various colors.

Quote:

Originally posted by oldlady

The "noodles, Chef Boy-ar-dee, were Linguini, and while not a purist's choice for Bolognese, they seemed appropriate in this case. It never occurred to me that a diligent researcher like yourself would not read the package, or that the other Linguini would let you oaf it out like that!

Don't get me wrong. Even though they were crunchy, they were quite tasty with that :saint:

heavenly

sauce you provided. (FYI - real men don't need instructions.)

BMG - 2-4-2009 at 05:27 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by morgaine7

Quote:

Originally posted by BMG
Now she wants some tube socks in various colors.

I'll keep my eyes open!! Kids' legwarmers should also work. :light:

Quote:

(FYI - real men don't need instructions.)

Especially those who don't need reading glasses. :rolleyes:

Kate

We were looking for other cast-sleeve ideas. Leg warmers would be perfect. With the knitting needles from oldlady, I just may knit her some.

And my hindsight happens to be 20-20!

longlegsinlapaz - 2-4-2009 at 06:07 PM

Quote:

And my hindsight happens to be 20-20!

Uhhhhhhhhh...would that be your eyesight...or HINDSIGHT? :biggrin:

But more importantly, why did you put periods in front of the word sight??

Take good care of her!

oladulce - 2-4-2009 at 07:27 PM

lilli

Try aiming a hair dryer on the "cool" setting in to your cast when it starts to get itchy underneath.

And I'm going to spare you a knitting needle no-no lecture young ladies! It will be an ugly sight when the cast comes off weeks from now and all the knitting needle wounds have been able to fester in that warm, dark environment. eeyuck.

At least try to get ahold of some nice long plastic or resin-coated chop sticks that are less likely to break your skin (but you didn't hear that from me!)

oldlady - 2-4-2009 at 08:02 PM

You're correct, oladulce, and I did tell her they are a no-no. But a girl's gotta do....

The ones I gave her are wooden and not sharply pointed and indeed of a small enough gauge that she may well be able to use the non pointed end for a gentle rub that will relieve the itch without any skin irritation let alone wounds (but I have resin ones if you think that's a better idea).

lingililingili - 2-6-2009 at 01:32 PM

golly ladies! thank you! I have not had to use my trusty wooden knitting needles yet, maybe i won't need them! I don't own a hair dryer but itching just DRIVES ME CRAZY so if need be I will buy one. todo bien

El Camote - 2-6-2009 at 01:53 PM

Broke my elbow in a motorcycle accident when I was 18. It was a massive cast that went up to my shoulder and down to isolate the wrist as well. In time, the cast became disgustingly gross so I spray painted it. It became so cumbersome I couldn't wait to get it off. Then I was involved in a car accident which broke the cast but did no other bodily damage. Great, I couldn't wait to get a new cast. Instead, they wrapped over the old one making it even heavier. :mad:

Good luck on your mend and don't act like an 18-year old. :bounce:

[Edited on 2-6-2009 by El Camote]

lingililingili - 2-6-2009 at 03:45 PM

El Camote

excellent advice!

Sallysouth - 2-6-2009 at 05:52 PM

My Grandaughter was born there five years ago.Excellent care and clean ,clean clean.!!Very nice staff and caring nurses and doctors.That would be my choice of facilties if I ever needed emergency care or an operation.Get better Linguini and try not to scar up that leg!!

BMG - 3-11-2009 at 09:24 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by BMG

Total bill (hospital, 2 doctors, x-rays, medications and designer sling) - M$2300.

Additional costs since first visit.

M$600 - xray.
M$1200 - new lightweight full arm cast.
M$60 - tube socks.
M$600 - xray.
M$1000 - new lightweight wrist cast.
M$340 - medication.

Looks like we are up to a little more than M$6000.

Full recovery expected for her. Still questionable for me.