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.

I'm in West Texas as well, but don't really know any doctors in Lubbock.

Hi, i gone through your message, it is very use full.

My self also staying in West Texas but i know very few doctors in Lubbock.

When i searched in Google for hospitals and doctors, i found one Indian local search engine, It has Hyderabad, India Hospitals, Schools, Hotels...etc Addresses with clear route maps.

I hope it is use full for some of people.

If I am correct, "out of area" in insurance terms does not necessarily mean your geographic area....it means who is in your 'insurance network'. Talk to you Cstomer Service Rep at the your insurance co and ask for approved surgeons for wls. You can get your pre-op work done locally and have them fax it to wherever you go for surgery. (That doctor's pre-op rquirements are far more extensive than most.....even for people with lots of medical history!!). I'd shop around before doing anything!!

Most of the people in the Panhandle go to Dallas for their surgeries. It's a cheap, short direct flight to Love Field from Lubbock and a large number of very experienced, skilled surgeons there.

Hello,

I am also a fellow West Texan. I had my surgery done on November 12, 2008, by Dr. David Hall, in Lubbock TX. I would highly, highly recomend him! He and his staff are all wonderful caring people! They call to check on me all the time and it was just a great experience for me! I have lost 15 pounds so far and hope to lose at least 40 more! It's great to find this website!!

Love,

Lana