Looking for WLS Advice in Edmonton

Hello

I am new to this forum and looking for some advice about WLS in Edmonton. I have a BMI of 40 and high blood pressure. I've found that going to my GP and seeking advice has gotten me basically no where. He's bascially offered no help, like he doesn't  see it as an "issue".

But I know that I want things to change..so I am wondering if anyone has any advice on what to do? Such as having surgery done privetly in Edmonton: costs, wait times, etc? vs having the surgery done in the public system: wait times etc..?

I've heard of the weight loss program in at the Royal Alex (although not through my GP :( just wondering what peoples experences have been with that have been?

If you want into the program go online and print the referral form from the clinic site, go see your doctor and tell him you want a referral into the program.

There are no options in Alberta to get the surgery privately so this is your only way unless you want to go to Mexico and have it done.

Once he faxes in the form, you should start taking the modules right away, there are 11 modules now and several are required before surgery.  The modules help you to change your lifestyle and set you up for success in the program.

The Weight Wise Program is the only one in Edmonton doing the surgery, from the time your referral is sent in you should have a wait time under 6 months until your first clinic visit, that gives you time to complete the modules.  As well if you can maintain or even lose some weight in that time it will help speed the process along.

I was referred into the program in Oct of 2011 and I am on track to have my Surgery in Sept of this year. That may seem like a long time to some but it has given me the opportunity to change my lifestyle and mentally prepare myself for the massive changes ahead.

It is a great program with great staff and lots of support.

Good Luck!

 Exactly what Speedtrap said...

http://www.albertahealthservices.ca/services.asp?pid=service &rid=1008784 


theres the link for the forms, just make an appt with your family doc and then call your local health unit to see if the weight wise modules are offered in your area, if not you'll have to find the closest place they are offered and take them that way...

Thanks for the advice! It does seem like a long wait, but in the bigger scheme of things it really isn't so bad. I'll just be happy to start and get healthy again.

My advice is to go through weight wise, but there is options of paying out of pocket in eastern Canada and prices start at $16,000.
The wait at the clinic is well worth it!

Wow, that much! Yikes.

Mexico can be an excellent option, and an awful lot cheaper than going to Quebec. I just got back Monday night from what I have to say is the best hospital experience of my life.

Do your research, weigh your choices, then do what is best for you. If you decide to go self-pay, don't just grab the fastest or cheapest - this is your health, not a new set of clothes or new toy. You don't generally get a do-over with bariatric surgery.