Anyone from Northern Cali?

Just wondering if someone out there has Kaiser/Northern Cal.  My Dr. sent in my referral about a month ago and I haven't heard anything yet.  Just wondering if this is normal for Kaiser.  Any and all advice is welcomed.    Gracias, Moni

 Hi Moni, I'm from the other end of the State, so I can't help you, but I just wanted to welcome you to the CA board!  I'm sure someone will get an answer for you quick!  Just in case they don't a month seems awfully long, and you might need to be your own patient advocate here and give them a call....take good care and be sure and stay in touch with us on here!   Kim

Hi Moni, I'm in No. CA but have Blue Cross.  I saw my doctor May 2 and just got approved today.  I  encourage you to call the doctor and ask them to check on the status (if you haven't already).  I had a couple  things fall through so I'm glad I called to check. :)  I'm sure someone will respond who has your insurance soon.  In the meantime, welcome! ---jan---

Hi Monica, I have no idea how kaiser works but just wanted to say HELLOOOO as iam from Lodi..just a hop skip and a jump from you. I haven't been around these parts much lately but you are welcome to give me a holler anytime. Good luck to you! Faith

Hi Faith, thank you for the warm welcome.  This is the first time for me on the Cali Forum but I know I'm going to need all the support.  I recognized your surgeons name because he was the first surgeon my Mom went to. (2 yrs ago)  I went with my Mom to her orientation with him and I really enjoyed it, he was great!  Unfortunately she had to switch surgeons at the last minute but I really liked Dr. Corin.  Talk to ya soon!   Monica 

Moni, I am new to the list but can share. I am going to Kaiser Richmond. I was told that was only one of two, the other being Fremont. I live in Vacaville and Richmond is an hour plus drive for me. I have my surgeon appt. Aug 1. My first referral was made in before April and my first of many 'classes' started then. I just went to a nutrition class (five hours) last week. Kaiser moves slowly. I"d love to chat with you! Marcia

Thank you for sharing with me Marcia, I feel much better knowing that I'm not just being impatient! (haha)  I've heard so many horror stories about Kaiser, the one thing my Dr. did tell me was that I will have to lose 10% of my weight...I'm so not looking forward to that part but I guess I have no choice.  Have you had to do that part of it yet?  Once more quick question did you attend the required clasees in Richmond or were you able to attend them at your local Kaiser? 

Richmond or Fremont are the two choices.. that's it..I am working on my 10%... No one gave me the exact amount. I am down 12 pounds. I figured on my own 23 pounds. Down from 239 at my first weigh in. I am trying hard but the pounds don't melt away in the valley heat. You PCP will refer you to Richmond (I am guessing) (is Fremont any closer?) where you have one orientation then a visit with the pyschologist then a nutrition class. That's where I am ...Next the surgeon appt.. mine is Aug 1... such a long process. I'd love to chat anytime. Marcia  707 4486366

Good luck I hope that it happens soon for you. I have BC and Medicare. I live in Jackson and I will be going to Modesto (Dr Coates). I went to the first information seminar last thursday. I can't wait till I get a date.Sue

Hi, I am from the Placerville area and belong to Kaiser.  My PCP referred me in November 2006, I had my orientation class on Febraury 20, 2007, and had surgery July 2, 2007 (South San Francisco).  It was an awesome experience, great surgeon and wonderful education!! Good luck.