I cannot go to the bariatric clinic until Jan 2014 when my new insurance kicks in. BUT are there pre ops appointemtns I can go to now that will help when I go to the clinic? Should I schedule an appointment for a physical with my PCP should I ask for bloodwork? Should I schedule an appt with a gyn (havent been to one in years)? Or should I just wait until January and start then?

If your new insurance won't require a 6 month medically supervised diet/exercise program, I would start now (especially if your current insurance would cover it). You might be able to go ahead and get the physical, the thryoid panel and pysch evaluation. Be sure to call your bariatric clinic to confirm the requirements.

If your new insurance requires a 6 month medically supervised diet/exercise program, then you're not in any hurry with the tests, but you could still start the monthly visits with your PCP.

No. Pre-ops typically have to be done within a certain narrow window of time before surgery. Consult with your surgeon.

In addition, if you schedule all your medical tests and the surgery in the same calendar year, depending on your deductible and your income, you may have enough costs to take a medical deduction on your taxes.

Good call. Thanks