Need Help!

Hi

I am currently on 2 lists for WLS in New Brunsick.  My family doctor has recommended that I outsource surgery wait times in other provinces, the US or even Mexico.  This really scares me but my BMI is around 72.  If you can give me an idea of how long of a wait it is in other provinces etxc  I would really appreciate it. I called Medicare in NB and they advised that they will pay for surgery in another province  except Quebec but I need to find a doctor, then have my family doctor and the surgeon write a letter to the NB Medicare board to ensure payment would be made.  I'm lost at where to start so I thought I know...the great groups on OH can help.  I'm even considering going self pay if necessary

Thanks
Angela

HI Angela:

The wait time in Alberta can vary from 3 years plus, just to see a surgeon and then another year or so beofre you get approved for surgery.  This is if you go through the province funderd weight wise clinic in Edmonton.

Several epople from here have gone to Ontario and didn't wait long at all for surgery.  Many also go to Mexico but that would be self-pay.

There are several clinics all over the States to but again I suspect it would be self pay..

Whatever you do, make sure your are using a well-respected experienced surgeon who has a good follow-up program/  With a BMI aws high as yurs, you will be a high risk patient anyhow and you don't want someone who has only done 100 surgeries, you want sonmeone who has done many hundred.
I wish you good luck in your search .
Eydie

Dr. Farries in Red Deer AB is approx 1 yr to 18 months but he only takes referrals the first Monday in May for that year.

Hi Angela,

If you do choose to go the self-pay route, I went to Dr. Christou in Quebec.  His average wait list for self-pay is about 6 weeks.  If you need any information, let me know!

Good luck!!