So my family's regular primary doctor retired and I am seeing this new doctor tomorrow for the first time for a new patient visit. I am wondering how I can talk about my interest in a referral for weight loss surgery and if it will be potentially difficult or will I need hit all these certain points or a criteria (besides my high bmi). I want to be geniuine and just talk about my issues and how I feel but I am afraid of being belittled or just told to be in a calorie deficit and exercise. My biggest fear is them saying no.

I think in this day and age most doctors are comfortable with weight loss surgery. Some aren't - but most are willing to do the referral. In fact, mine was the one who brought it up first because she was familiar with my history. Once your BMI is over 40, it's very difficult to lose weight through diet and exercise alone - most doctors should know that. I wouldn't worry until you see the person. If they aren't on board with it, can you switch doctors?

Do you need a doctor's referral? I just called the clinic on my own and made an appointment. I told my primary after I'd already been in the program a few months. He was totally in favor of getting a revision and has been very supportive.

I'd start with your insurance and see if you even need a referral. Do you typically need a referral to see a specialist? Find out your insurance requirements for surgery. It shouldn't be your primary that has requirements for you, it's typically insurance and the surgeon themselves that will have criteria you may need to meet. You may be able to just investigate local practices on your own and schedule something.

But I would also just say I'm interested in getting more information on weight loss surgery, can you help me with that? And then go from there. If you do need a referral and they say no, ask them to document their refusal in your chart and then seek another doctor.

I did not need a referral to start the process but I am in a PPO. The last thing I did in the whole pre op testing was get a Letter of Medical Necessity from my primary care doctor. He was supportive but was surprised I kind of went about it backwards (meaning he thought the discussion with him and obtaining the letter should've been first)..Oh well ?

So some doctors do require it I believe but the doctor i'm looking at aparently does not so after a long visit I believe I will just call and see what are the steps to becoming a new patient. Thank you all, he basically said what you all said he would supportive with the surgeons opinion when I see him.