Hello everyone,

I am interested in having the lap band surgery and have started the process but I don't have a primary care physician. Does anyone know of a good doctor in my area that is lap band friendly? Please help, I have to follow a medically supervised diet for 6 months in order for my surgery to be covered by my insurance. Also, the physician has to write a letter of recommendation. Thanks

Do you live in Tampa or somewhere near Tampa? I am from Pasco County. My Primary Care doctor is great but is in New Port Richey.

If you want her info email me. I am fan of any other the doctors in the Baycare network. That is St. Joe and Morton Plant Mease hospitals.

If I don't hear from you, good luck to you.

I live in Tampa. I am not sure how far new port richey is but I am willing to travel if I have too.

That is about 35 miles from Tampa depending where in Tampa you are located. My Primary Care doctor is Mildred Pazmino-Vera 727-815-3312.

I am not sure she is taking new patients or not. Doesn't take Avmed I know because I had to change insurance co. to stay with her several years ago. She encouraged me to get the band done for several years before I finally did it.

Who is going to do your band? I have a friend who is going to someone in Tampa, can't remember his name.

Good Luck!

I was banded 4/14/08 and my Primary Care is Dr. Bruce Kahan in the business center off of Bearss and Medaca Lane. His number is (813) 960-7533. He is very good, and is lap-band friendly, as he supported me completely through mine. If you cannot make and appointment with him, his ARNP Scott Schierer is AWESOME!!

Dr. John Dietrick at UCH did my lap-band, and is an excellent surgeon who takes the time to explain everything to you step by step, and is very honest and not driven by making money by volume. You can reach the surgical weight loss center there at (813) 971-6000.

I hope this helps, and if you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask.

Jason