Calling all Dr. John Crissler (All Things Male) patients share your experinece

[Enfuego129]

Fellas, I am considering a visit to Dr John Crisslers office "all things male" for TRT treatment, and wanted to hear from others that get treatment from him on their experiences.

At this point what I know is that the first consult is $500 and that he does not accept insurance. I am ok with the initial $500 but do not have an unlimited bank account. I will have to call my BCBS HMO to find out how the payment for prescriptions will be handled. Have any of you with a BCBS HMO had problems with coverage or treatment. What were your experiences at the clinic...good or bad?

[frawnz]

Sounds like an anti-aging clinic and insurance will probably not cover anything.

[Enfuego129]

I believe it is a anti aging clinic. I am ok with the consult fee and what I understand is that the prescriptions might be covered by insurance but at this point I dont know.

Part of the reason I started this thread was to find out if the prescriptions have been covered and whether or not guys have been happy with the treatment and results.

[Vettester]

I don't go through Dr. John for my treatment, but I do study his practices and agree wholeheartedly with a lot of his philosophies regarding HRT. I also have found some good information in his forum.

IMHO, this is the kind of place YOU need to working with. I personally believe that your current medical team has done you wrong. In fact it's borderline incompetency with how your program has been administered.

The initial costs are always the highest part of the treatment program. He will probably want to do a few follow up visits with you throughout the year, but I would imagine that the costs will be a lot lower. I suggest you go for it!

[Enfuego129]

I don't go through Dr. John for my treatment, but I do study his practices and agree wholeheartedly with a lot of his philosophies regarding HRT. I also have found some good information in his forum.

IMHO, this is the kind of place YOU need to working with. I personally believe that your current medical team has done you wrong. In fact it's borderline incompetency with how your program has been administered.

The initial costs are always the highest part of the treatment program. He will probably want to do a few follow up visits with you throughout the year, but I would imagine that the costs will be a lot lower. I suggest you go for it!

Vetteman, when you mentioned Dr Johns forum are you referring to the All Things Male website or are you referring to an actual forum. If so please share the link you are using to access his forum. thanks

[Vettester]

Vetteman, when you mentioned Dr Johns forum are you referring to the All Things Male website or are you referring to an actual forum. If so please share the link you are using to access his forum. thanks

Just Google "All things male forum" and it will come right up. I don't want to upset the management team here by posting a link to another forum that pertains to HRT.

[956Vette]

agree wholeheartedly with a lot of his philosophies regarding HRT

Agreed. I have a lot of respect for all things male dot com. Certainly credible

[pittbulldad]

To make sure your insurance pays for the drugs you need to find out what types and in what dosage...

for example I was taking 200mg Test Cyp from a 10ml bottle.. my inusrance wouldn't cover.. however they do cover

Most commonly prescribed medications
Name Strength Form Brand/Generic
Testosterone Cyp 100 Mg/ml ( 10 ml) 100 mg/ml Vial Generic |
Testosterone Cyp 200 Mg/ml ( 1 ml) 200 mg/ml Vial Generic |
Testosterone Cypionate Powd ( 5 gm) Powder Brand |
Testosterone Enan 200 Mg/ml ( 5 ml) 200 mg/ml Vial Generic |
Testosterone Powder ( 5 gm) Powder Brand |
Testosterone Propionate Pwd ( 5 gm) Powder Brand |

Less commonly prescribed medications
Name Strength Form Brand/Generic
Testosterone Propionate Powder ( 5 gm) Powder Brand |
Testosterone Powder Micronized ( 0.025 gm) Powder Brand |
Testosterone Cypionate Pwd ( 1 gm) Powder Brand |
Testosterone Cypionate Powder ( 5 gm) Powder Brand |

all of this info was pulled directly from my insurance company's website (United Healtcare).. each company has to post the formulary and tell you what drugs they will cover...

just do some research before you go to the doctor and you will save yourself a ton of money..

I was paying 105 per 10ml vial.. i'm now paying 10 per 5 ml... pretty big difference

[Enfuego129]

Thanks for the replies fellas, Vetteman especially. You have been a great help in the advise you have given me and thanks for your patience in teaching a newer TRT guy the finer points. Sometimes I confuse myself with all the information I read here.

[Vettester]

Thanks for the replies fellas, Vetteman especially. You have been a great help in the advise you have given me and thanks for your patience in teaching a newer TRT guy the finer points. Sometimes I confuse myself with all the information I read here.

Just do me a favor ... Stick around here more often and pass your experiences on to others when they come here seeking some initial advise. Especially if you get something good going with Dr. John, you could be a big help to new members with saving a lot of time and grief if they've gone through what you have.

One thing you will like about Dr. John is that he addresses the full scope of looking at keeping the complete hormonal pathway balanced, which really opens the door for the entire endocrine system to be optimized. You will be a new man, I promise you, once you start getting treated properly.

[warchild]

To make sure your insurance pays for the drugs you need to find out what types and in what dosage...

for example I was taking 200mg Test Cyp from a 10ml bottle.. my inusrance wouldn't cover.. however they do cover

Most commonly prescribed medications
Name Strength Form Brand/Generic
Testosterone Cyp 100 Mg/ml ( 10 ml) 100 mg/ml Vial Generic |
Testosterone Cyp 200 Mg/ml ( 1 ml) 200 mg/ml Vial Generic |
Testosterone Cypionate Powd ( 5 gm) Powder Brand |
Testosterone Enan 200 Mg/ml ( 5 ml) 200 mg/ml Vial Generic |
Testosterone Powder ( 5 gm) Powder Brand |
Testosterone Propionate Pwd ( 5 gm) Powder Brand |

Less commonly prescribed medications
Name Strength Form Brand/Generic
Testosterone Propionate Powder ( 5 gm) Powder Brand |
Testosterone Powder Micronized ( 0.025 gm) Powder Brand |
Testosterone Cypionate Pwd ( 1 gm) Powder Brand |
Testosterone Cypionate Powder ( 5 gm) Powder Brand |

all of this info was pulled directly from my insurance company's website (United Healtcare).. each company has to post the formulary and tell you what drugs they will cover...

just do some research before you go to the doctor and you will save yourself a ton of money..

I was paying 105 per 10ml vial.. i'm now paying 10 per 5 ml... pretty big difference

I have united healthcare and pay $10 for 10ml 200 test cyp. maybe we have dif plans...

[pittbulldad]

I have united healthcare and pay $10 for 10ml 200 test cyp. maybe we have dif plans...

I'm in california on a PPO

[PPC]

My Dad is a pateint of Dr John's. But Dad pays out of pocket as he does not have insurance. Dr J is real good about working with him. He lets my Dad use online labs and really tries to not load things up financially on him. He's very understanding about financial matters and doesn't make him do any unecessary tests that will break the bank.

Dad does Dr J's 'ungrowth hormone' protocol. I have to say Dad is fired up with energy these days. He has lost a lot of weight. Never seen him better. But....they have been unable to figure out some of my Dad's libido issues yet. They're working on it. E2 is in check so it's not that.

[Enfuego129]

My Dad is a pateint of Dr John's. But Dad pays out of pocket as he does not have insurance. Dr J is real good about working with him. He lets my Dad use online labs and really tries to not load things up financially on him. He's very understanding about financial matters and doesn't make him do any unecessary tests that will break the bank.

Dad does Dr J's 'ungrowth hormone' protocol. I have to say Dad is fired up with energy these days. He has lost a lot of weight. Never seen him better. But....they have been unable to figure out some of my Dad's libido issues yet. They're working on it. E2 is in check so it's not that.

Good to know and, thanks for the post. I believe my insurance will cover prescriptions written by any doctor. Hope I'm right.

[Enfuego129]

My Dad is a pateint of Dr John's. But Dad pays out of pocket as he does not have insurance. Dr J is real good about working with him. He lets my Dad use online labs and really tries to not load things up financially on him. He's very understanding about financial matters and doesn't make him do any unecessary tests that will break the bank.

Dad does Dr J's 'ungrowth hormone' protocol. I have to say Dad is fired up with energy these days. He has lost a lot of weight. Never seen him better. But....they have been unable to figure out some of my Dad's libido issues yet. They're working on it. E2 is in check so it's not that.

Do you know if your dads bloodwork is covered by insurance. It sounds like my insurance will cover all legitimate prescriptions and that Dr John does not accept insurance but will give insurance coded receipts for reimbursement. I wonder about the bloodwork.

[warchild]

why is it that some anti aging clinics get shut down and some don't? How are they legal anyways???

[frawnz]

why is it that some anti aging clinics get shut down and some don't? How are they legal anyways???

A lot of it depends on the state they're in, but let's face it... they'll pretty much put anyone on TRT or HGH. When I was looking into HGH, they wanted me to sign all of these non-disclosure agreements, swearing that I would not discuss anything or hold the AA clinic accountable in any way for anything that happened.

So ya, while they generally skirt the line, I'd say they fall more into the illegal side of things. It's a lot harder to prove than say selling coke on the street, since they are prescription drugs issued by an actual doctor to actual patients. That's why they usually are able to survive for a while, and if you ever keep track, you will notice that they often change locations as well as company names, making it even more difficult to prosecute/investigate.

[Enfuego129]

A lot of it depends on the state they're in, but let's face it... they'll pretty much put anyone on TRT or HGH. When I was looking into HGH, they wanted me to sign all of these non-disclosure agreements, swearing that I would not discuss anything or hold the AA clinic accountable in any way for anything that happened.

So ya, while they generally skirt the line, I'd say they fall more into the illegal side of things. It's a lot harder to prove than say selling coke on the street, since they are prescription drugs issued by an actual doctor to actual patients. That's why they usually are able to survive for a while, and if you ever keep track, you will notice that they often change locations as well as company names, making it even more difficult to prosecute/investigate.

This subject has been a real fear of mine since I learned of Dr Crisslers practice. Is it legal and where is the line that I dare not cross. I have a good local government job and do not want to chance anything.

[Vettester]

This subject has been a real fear of mine since I learned of Dr Crisslers practice. Is it legal and where is the line that I dare not cross. I have a good local government job and do not want to chance anything.

Enfuego, get this fear out of your head. There's been a lot of paranoid discussions lately about what if "the man" gets involved. Hypogonadism is a legit diagnosis and it is treated a million times over in the US. The treatments thereof are schedule III controlled substances, but then again so is vicodin. Legit clinics like the one with Dr. JC go through a series of qualifications for their patients before treating them. Most clinics and HRT specialists usually don't talk to you unless you're over 35yo.

As stated in a earlier post, all of your meds will have a legal prescription number assigned to them. If your employer does random blood checks, then explain your condition up front. Again, it is a very common condition with a very common treatment regiment throughout the US. I have yet to hear about 1 member here getting "the man" at their doorstep because of their TRT prescription.

[Enfuego129]

Enfuego, get this fear out of your head. There's been a lot of paranoid discussions lately about what if "the man" gets involved. Hypogonadism is a legit diagnosis and it is treated a million times over in the US. The treatments thereof are schedule III controlled substances, but then again so is vicodin. Legit clinics like the one with Dr. JC go through a series of qualifications for their patients before treating them. Most clinics and HRT specialists usually don't talk to you unless you're over 35yo.

As stated in a earlier post, all of your meds will have a legal prescription number assigned to them. If your employer does random blood checks, then explain your condition up front. Again, it is a very common condition with a very common treatment regiment throughout the US. I have yet to hear about 1 member here getting "the man" at their doorstep because of their TRT prescription.

Let me explain....I am not questioning the integrity or honesty of Dr Johns practice or any other. This is the result of 20 years of Catholic education aka "Catholic guilt" and my glass being half empty sometimes. I guess I am also showing my ignorance on the subject.

No disrespect intended.

[warchild]

A lot of it depends on the state they're in, but let's face it... they'll pretty much put anyone on TRT or HGH. When I was looking into HGH, they wanted me to sign all of these non-disclosure agreements, swearing that I would not discuss anything or hold the AA clinic accountable in any way for anything that happened.

So ya, while they generally skirt the line, I'd say they fall more into the illegal side of things. It's a lot harder to prove than say selling coke on the street, since they are prescription drugs issued by an actual doctor to actual patients. That's why they usually are able to survive for a while, and if you ever keep track, you will notice that they often change locations as well as company names, making it even more difficult to prosecute/investigate.

what do they give you? dosage and compounds??

[frawnz]

As long as you have Rx for everything you're taking, you should be fine. The responsibility falls on the Dr. to know the laws regarded various treatments and the prescribing of drugs. Is it legal? Well, that depends on what is being prescribed based on what your actual medical condition is. TRT would be a lot easier to fall under "legal" treatment than HGH, for example.

[warchild]

az ppo

[frawnz]

I ended up going to an actual endocrinologist because the whole vibe I got from the clinic was didn't feel right (like them changing their name/location during the time it took to get my initial bloodwork done).

Granted, I can't get Rx HGH, but at least my TRT is on the books and I feel confident with an actual doctor I can go see and is established in the community.

[subnet]

EF, I grew up with the Catholic guilt thing too... remember it's not about buying 'roids' from a guy in a back alley, it's about getting a medical diagnosis (in my case it says Testicular Hypofunction on my invoice when I see the Dr.) and you being under a certain level, then the Dr. treating you for your condition.

As Vetteman said, all of your meds will have a legal prescription number assigned to them. It's OK to buy them and be in possesion of them because they are no different than any other regular prescription. It's just been drilled into our head that this steriod thing is taboo and evil.

[Enfuego129]

EF, I grew up with the Catholic guilt thing too... remember it's not about buying 'roids' from a guy in a back alley, it's about getting a medical diagnosis (in my case it says Testicular Hypofunction on my invoice when I see the Dr.) and you being under a certain level, then the Dr. treating you for your condition.

As Vetteman said, all of your meds will have a legal prescription number assigned to them. It's OK to buy them and be in possesion of them because they are no different than any other regular prescription. It's just been drilled into our head that this steriod thing is taboo and evil.

Agreed, the Church has a way of messing with your head and making you feel guilty about anything that brings happiness. I will see Dr John when I come up with the cash for the visit. Fortunately, my wife is on board with the treatment but has reservations about the cost.

[pittbulldad]

I must be the only catholic that doesn't have catholic guilt .. I always thought that was what confession was for.. so you wouldn't feel guilty

[Enfuego129]

I must be the only catholic that doesn't have catholic guilt .. I always thought that was what confession was for.. so you wouldn't feel guilty

Been 30 years since last confession. Funny thing is every time I catch a Priest at a wedding or funeral I consider requesting confession right there on the spot. Might change my outlook completely if I could get 30 years of living like a rick star off of my mind.

[pittbulldad]

Been 30 years since last confession. Funny thing is every time I catch a Priest at a wedding or funeral I consider requesting confession right there on the spot. Might change my outlook completely if I could get 30 years of living like a rick star off of my mind.

Last time I confessed was prior to marriage to second wife (4 years ago), prior to that its been close to 20 years i think..

all i want to know what the hell is a rick star?

[zaggahamma]

Last time I confessed was prior to marriage to second wife (4 years ago), prior to that its been close to 20 years i think..

all i want to know what the hell is a rick star?

rick james

[Enfuego129]

Yes, rick star is supposed to be a "Rock Star". My cell phone does auto correct on spelling and sometimes it changes correctly spelled words to others. It drives me nuts.

[subnet]

confession? I think the last time I went to confession was... ummmm... probably 23 years ago (give or take!)

[subnet]

rick star = rock star for the keyboard/spelling challenged I'm guessing

[Enfuego129]

Here is an update on where I am at since seeing the endo two weeks ago.

1)The endo said that he is unwilling to give me TRT/HRT and would submit his recommendations to my GP.
2)I have visited my GP and had a general conversation with him about how I felt with and without supplemental T (Androgel). He agreed to put me back on the Androgel at 10 grams and said that his knowledge is limited on HRT/TRT. I was glad to start up again. In the one week I have started taking it again I feel that my mood and general metal abilities have improved although I get really tired around early evening, but I seem to be sleeping better (deeper).. Energy levels seem unchanged at this time but I dont think I have been on it long enough to realize those benefits yet.
3) Libido is coming back although it is the wrong time of month for the bride. God has a sense of humor
4) I have discussed these positive changes with my wife and she is encouraged at getting her husband back.
5) She is supporting my wanting to visit to Dr Crisler later this fall but is concerned about what this will cost out of pocket. FYI, this is partly why I started this thread.
6) Next week I will call my insurance BCBS HMO and discuss my intentions and see if they can outline covered and uncovered costs. The two biggest costs I forsee are the initial consult and bloodwork.
7) Next week I will also call regarding HRT/TRT prescriptions(different department) to see if those will be covered. FYI, I called them a couple months ago and the customer service rep said that they would be covered but I want to be sure.

Any advise you guys can offer between now and the time I get in to see Dr Crisler this fall. It might be a couple months before I get in.

[lifeforce0019]

Here is an update on where I am at since seeing the endo two weeks ago.

1)The endo said that he is unwilling to give me TRT/HRT and would submit his recommendations to my GP.
2)I have visited my GP and had a general conversation with him about how I felt with and without supplemental T (Androgel). He agreed to put me back on the Androgel at 10 grams and said that his knowledge is limited on HRT/TRT. I was glad to start up again. In the one week I have started taking it again I feel that my mood and general metal abilities have improved although I get really tired around early evening, but I seem to be sleeping better (deeper).. Energy levels seem unchanged at this time but I dont think I have been on it long enough to realize those benefits yet.
3) Libido is coming back although it is the wrong time of month for the bride. God has a sense of humor
4) I have discussed these positive changes with my wife and she is encouraged at getting her husband back.
5) She is supporting my wanting to visit to Dr Crisler later this fall but is concerned about what this will cost out of pocket. FYI, this is partly why I started this thread.
6) Next week I will call my insurance BCBS HMO and discuss my intentions and see if they can outline covered and uncovered costs. The two biggest costs I forsee are the initial consult and bloodwork.
7) Next week I will also call regarding HRT/TRT prescriptions(different department) to see if those will be covered. FYI, I called them a couple months ago and the customer service rep said that they would be covered but I want to be sure.

Any advise you guys can offer between now and the time I get in to see Dr Crisler this fall. It might be a couple months before I get in.

On the all things male dot com link, Dr. Crisler indicates that he is willing to consult with your family practitioner if you make the request. Seems like a good way to go in your case. Your family practitioner can order all the blood work so it is covered by your insurance, as well as the meds as described above if you order one month amounts. You will only have to pay Dr. Crisler's consult fee.

[Enfuego129]

On the all things male dot com link, Dr. Crisler indicates that he is willing to consult with your family practitioner if you make the request. Seems like a good way to go in your case. Your family practitioner can order all the blood work so it is covered by your insurance, as well as the meds as described above if you order one month amounts. You will only have to pay Dr. Crisler's consult fee.

Thanks for the reply, that is my goal in this whole thing. Unfortunately it appears that my doctor is almost as conservative as the endo I saw for the last four months. The endo stated he will not recommend TRT to me through my GP even though I have been consistently low in the total T. When I met my GP for an unrelated medical problem he stated he hadn't received the report from the endo but would put me back on the Andro Gel because of my improvement in mood and energy. He followed up by saying that this is all he is comfortable with. I wont know if he will work with Dr Crisler at this point. Once I see Dr Crisler and have his recommendations I will cross that bridge. Money is tight right now and I may have to wait to see Dr John.