I had RNY in April of 2009, I lost 150 lbs post op (275 start)... I have since had three babies and am back up to 180 lbs and I am really frustrated with my inability to lose weight. I am now stuck in a very rural area where no bariatric surgeons are and the closest one is at least 6 hours (+) away. I feel like I am constantly fighting with my practitoners about my lab work even requesting a certain lab draw is like pulling teeth! My labs are pretty low (B12, iron, TSH etc) but still fall in a "normal range" but Im still feeling awful anyone have any experience with this? How do you get uninformed doctors to listen? I had one Dr even deny B-12 shots to me because my levels are currently "acceptable" (500) with my 2500 mcg 3x a day dosing of sublingual B-12

Not having a team on your side is going to continue to make you miserable. Is moving out of the question? Also, is it financially smart to consider flying rather than driving (once a month) so that it can be your 'treat day' and still remain living where you are now?

To be honest I would make the trip once a month to the surgeon and nutritionist just help you get back on track and to make sure you're okay or see if you can do it via corresponding with them on your computer.

Have them contact your primary physician once you've established yourself with the surgeon and nutritionist to coordinate the proper way to take care of you.

Have the surgeon and nutritionist write them a letter or call them of what needs to be done for you on a regular basis and why. Maybe this way you might get the care you need.

Another thing you could do is going to the next bigger town to a doctor who is more open about taking care of you and will work with you.

Look on your computer and see if anyone works with Bariatric patients some where closer to where you live. Research as much as you can.

Well these are my suggestions do what you will with them.

Take care.