Yearly PCP appointment..

Hello everyone, Well I am sitting here trying not to cry. I went to see my PCP Doc today for my pap and all that good stuff.. she is amazed how I look and is just so proud of me. My health is excellent as far as she can see (we will wait for blood work to come back). That is all the good news!! and Good news for sure!! so happy about that.. Now the upsetting part. When I went to the OH convention I talked to a PS there. He said to make sure I tell my PCP everything I have had problems with when it comes to the hanging skin and stuff.. He said with documentation, we can get my insurance to pay for my PS. I have HMO so it will take alot of infomration. but it can work. So every time I get a rash, a bump.., if my back is hurting.. etc.. I call and get some cream to put on it etc.. just to build my case. When I saw her (my PCP), I once again told her about my problems I have been having. She didnt seem to write any of it down. So I told her, I am telling you all this so I can start me case for PS. She had me stand up. She told me that I do not qualify for PS. I am no where near anyone that would need it. She said I would need an apron of skin. ok, what is 3-4 inches of hanging skin?? Skin that hangs overmy pubic area?? I know that I am not as bad as some. but that doesnt mean that I shouldnt get it? right? Am I being selfish? Should I just be thankful I only have 4 inches that hang and sucked it up? I just think it isnt fair that she can decide that? In order to get a second opinion I would have to switch Doctors etc.. I have had her for 5 years. What do you guys think? Be honest with me. Let me know if I am just being a baby or whatever.. I am just heart broken.. Thanks for reading! Luvs and Hugs! Tiff

It shouldn't matter what she thinks, it's up to the insurance to determine if you qualify. I would demand (after asking her nicely) that she record such information for your case. She is NOT the deciding factor when it comes to what you qualify for. Each person and each insurance company is different. That's my thoughts. And I work for a health insurance company Molly

I was thinking the same thing..I am just going to keep calling about everything until she realizes that I need it.. I can ask her to submit for it right? But if she doesnt think I need it, then she wont write the right things to get me approved.. I am going to talk to her again.. Thanks for your help! Luvs and Hugs! Tiff

How upsetting! I agree with Molly - it doesn;t matter WHAT she thinks. She works for YOU and she should be documenting this. Unfortunately, I think you may need to change PCP's because is doesn't sound as if she will give it her best shot in terms of documentation. I'm facing similar challenges. With my "supportive garments" I don't look too droopy, but I know what I look like without them. Despite the fact that I "only" had a little over a hundred pounds to lose, my skin has just refused to show any signs of it's former elasticity. There won't be any bouncing back for THIS skin. I am hoping for some insurance help with my plastic surgery - and I hope your situation turns out as well.

oh, Tiff...I'm so sorry to hear about how your dr is acting. I agree with the others that it is not your physicians decision weather you get the ps or not. Do you have to get a referral from you PCP to see a PS? Can you keep your own records and meet with a PS and then have the PS speak with your PCP. I wouldn't throw in the towel because your PCP doesn't think you need PS. I don't know how necessary mine would be, but I am DEFINATELY going to investigate it. I actually left a message for a PS today to start the process. Keep us posted on what you are going to do. Hugs, Tabby

Thanks guys for your input.. Yes Tabby, I need to get reffered by her to see a PS. I dont see it getting any worse either. I only have like 15 more lbs to lose.. I will go back in a few months and totally complain about what is going on. We will see what happens. I have found a website that is a company that will finance PS. So if she says no. I will see what they can do for me. I need my boobs done too. I am sure the ins wont pay for those.. We will see. i will keep you posted!! Luvs and Hugs! Tiff

The problem is that you need you PCP for the plastic surgery. It is best to get one who is on your side in this rather than one who will fight your claim. I had a similar issue pre-op with the RYN surgery I had to really fight to get statments and documentation if I had it to do over I would have gotten another PCP and fought with just the insurance co. not both of them. Current Picture: http://bp1.blogger.com/_G2zF2qir4LI/RqTxCD-nDoI/AAAAAAAAAAM/vPzmqXrk93E/s400/Angie-001.jpg

Do what you must to get the documentation/refereral to PS. I too have skin hanging over my public area..about the same 4"s , but WOW when a rash pops up its like burning pain...I cant even sit up @ work because every little move causes bleeding!!! My PCP is a doll, she has me on speed dial.. and keeps tabs on me, so hopefully (crossing fingers) when it comes time for my PS talk she will be "supportive" . Hugs and kisses to you and M... PS. you look so freakan good bioatch!