Need Some Guidance

I am considering getting the lap band procedure – the only problem is that it will have to be done in Lubbock, Texas where my insurance Pres has area network contracting physician. When I first met Dr. Frezza – I felt comfortable with him – but recently I have read some negative things about him - I was told my insurance that I could request an out area network physician – but it would get denied. I think there was some issues in the past with pre-op testing – but my PCP who had to write all the referrals that he requested (Psychologist Evaluation, EGD, Mamometry (performed by GI Physician), Sleep Apnea Test, H-Pylori (lab), Complete Metabolic Panel, CBC w/Diff, Chest X-Ray, EKG, Echocardiogram, A1C Level, Gallbladder Ultrasound, Ultrasound of Leg to rule our Deep Vein Thrombosis, Cardiologist Clearance (to be performed by a Cardiologist only), Pulmonary Clearance (to be performed by Pulmonologist only), and Pulmonary Function Test) – he thinks he is being cautious with pre-op surgery orders. I need some sound guidance from you all – I feel in reading all the post here that you all knowledgeable and a family unit.