Alta Bates orientation

Hi All,

Last night I went to Alta Bates orientation and I wanted to share what I learned in no particular order.

1. The Surgeon wants you take at least four to six weeks off work (I wish I could afford that). I will probably take three weeks.

2. You have to go on a high protein diet before the surgery… and lose between 10 to 20 pounds. However, depending on your BMI you might not have to lose any if it will disqualify you from surgery

3. You have to get all these pre-op test done (Since I have a PPO, I have to find these doctors and get all the appointments myself)

4. From first visit to surgery, the process will be approx. 4 1/2 months

(It is going to take them two to three weeks to go thru the orientation packet)

5. Then the office will schedule a surgeon and nutrition and exercise class

6. You also have to complete three months of visits with your PCP

Since I am trying to be proactive with all this, I used BCBS provider directory to find a cardiologist and a gastroenterologist, however they will not see me without a referral from a PCP even though I have BCBS PPO and don’t need a referral. I have a doc appointment on Friday to get this done.

Does anyone know a nutritionist in the Bay Area that accepts BCBS?

I hope this information helps!

Thanks!