I had my first apt. on May 1st I was also overwhelmed by the huge list of to do's before I was approved for my surgery but I think it's pretty normal for bariatric doctors to have coordinators. The coord. In my doctors office did all the scheduling for me so and requested the medical necessity letter from my primary so all I had to do is show up to all the apts. and classes. Last week was my last apt. I already got approval from Ins. Company so now I'm just waiting on my date, she said it will be sometime in August. It's all really fast but I can't wait, I'm super excited! I hope this helps you, good luck.