JustAskinThx

Hi Lydia, I had my psych eval two weeks ago. They wanted to know things about my diet history, the doctor asked about my living situation (how are my major relationships, overall?) about my history of being overweight, about why I'm choosing to do this now, about how much support I will have from family and friends. The doctor also asked questions to find out if I have a history of binging and purging or of any anorexia way in the past (hoho, definitely no anorexia now!), and to find out what types of challenges I expect from my Lap-Band changes (like the liquid diet, the small bites and thorough chewing, not drinking Water with my meals, etc.) One of the things the doctor did was to tell me that I may have some sadness and conflicting emotions as I lose the weight and that I can feel free to see him or another psychologist if that happens. He also had me do the MMPI, a psychological pencil-and-paper test. Apparently it all checked out, because the surgeon's office has submitted my paperwork for insurance approval. All in all, it was pretty non-threatening and low-key. I've had a history of depression and I was very upfront about that, and the doctor seemed more interested in how proactive I was at getting help than in any scary questions. My overall take on it was, they don't expect some paragon of perfection, as everyone has problems (we wouldn't be taking this path if we didn't have trouble losing the weight, after all.) I got the feeling it was more a trouble-shooting process to make sure that there's no need for further counseling on food issues and that you're aware of what you're getting into. I wish you good luck, Lydia! Nancy

I'm still early on in "The Journey"--got my psych eval appointment for today, as a matter of fact--but I'm thinking carefully about who to tell and how. I have been very open with my husband and son, as their lifestyles are starting to change too (we're all starting to eat healthier) and I have told two close friends who share weight struggles. I have one more friend I plan to tell--one of those Friends You Want At Your Bedside nurturing sorts--but beyond that, not sure I'll tell ANYONE. I'm going with the "Oh, I'm on a doctor-supervised weight loss plan. Thank you for noticing," approach myself. For now--this may change--as I said, I'm early on in this process.

Thank you all! You know, I really would not have a problem with a program fee which is tied in with the various support personnel--heaven knows, I've spent the bucks on various weight-loss plans before! But I'm glad I'm not the only one who thinks $4000 is way too high. Fortuantely, there is another surgeon on my insurance plan who does not charge an additional fee. Thank you all for your input! I am so happy I found this board. It's SO good to knoow I'm not alone in this!

Hang in there, Airam!! Don't let the obstacles get you down! Just remember...it's just hoops to jump through. Don't let it stop you from doing what you know you can do! Go girl!!! (Various whoo-whoo's and cheers) Onyx

Hi, I have a question. I'm researching my options for lap-band and I've been to two seminars. The first one was a doctor who does ONLY lap-band, works through one particular same-day surgery center, very slick and well designed program. In addition to the cost of the surgery covered under insurance, he charges a "program fee" of $4000. This is not negotiable. Second doctor, no such "program fee." He does not have an exercise consultant on staff nor does he have a pharmacist on staff as the first one does. Is this "program fee" a standard practice? I have good insurance, but I don't have $4000 lying around. Just Asking, Thanks!:thumbup: