Hi everyone! I'm very new here, and I have some questions that I'm hoping will be answered. I went to see my family doctor and he supported the choice and said I should pursue it, however I just don't know where to start. I called a surgeons office to ask a few questions, but it turned into more of a goose chase being transfered and leaving messages with no calls back. I need guidence on where to go from here. Do i call and just make an appointment or do i need a referral? Also What do you think of Terry Simpson? He is surgeon in my state and a family friend recommended him. Thanks to all who read this, I really appreciate any info!!

Depends on what type insurance you have and if it will cover WLS. The best thing to do is start there. Once you know if you will need a referral from your PCP then do your homework on surgeons in your area. Make a choice then an appt and you will be on your way.

Edited April 25, 201412 yr by Bigjkzgrl

Thanks!

Bigikzgrl is correct, insurance is critical. If you have good insurance, look for a Bariatric Clinic. I did a Google Search in my area to see what was available to me. There is normally a lot to WLS. Even if your insurance does not have specific requirements, and most do, good clinics will require meetings with a nutritionist and psychologist. Most of these clinics also have a doctor on staff that specialize in helping bariatric patients both before and after surgery. After care is especially important to long term success. Good luck to you! It has been a wonderful journey for me.

Aww thanks! I have UHC and I know they can be a little iffy with this. However my doctor said I do have a good chance of getting accepted. I am so ready and excited to start my new journey!

This was the process that I went through.

1. Discussed my desire for weight loss surgery with my family doctor. He concurred.

2. Looked at my plan to ensure bariatric surgery was covered and identified a bariatric center in my state which was within network.

3. Attended a seminar that discussed the types of surgery available, pros and cons for each type and at the end met with the surgeon and down-selected the type of surgery.

4. Went through a psychiatric evaluation.

5. Attended a 6 month medically monitored exercise and weight reduction program. (Mandated by my insurance company.)

6. Obtained approval for the surgery.

7. Underwent extensive pre-op testing.

8. Problems uncovered during pre-op testing resulted in another round of testing with specialist.

9. The surgery date was set.

10. Attended a day of classes on surgery and post surgery. This gave great detail on meal plans, Protein requirements, Vitamin requirements and other post surgery details.

11. Had surgery and left the hospital 2 days later and returned home.