Need help in Northern CO

I am just at the bmi of 35, slightly over.  I have severe high bp issues, and have had insomnia and elevated cholesterol in the past.  I have gained and lost the same 20+ pounds countless times and haven't been in my ideal weight range since 1992.  I'm thinking I have around 60 pounds to lose, and have thought the LAP band would be my best bet if I can get approval.  I just don't know where to start-don't have a good primary care dr.  I have avoided drs at every cost, haven't even had blood work done in 3 years, so I know that needs to be updated.  Both of my parents and brother have diabetes, so I know that's next.  I just dont' know how to find a supporitve PCP.  I'm thinking they will think I'm just fat, not fat enough...even though I have at least one major health issue, and it's bad.  I've been at stroke levels sevearl times due to my bp.  The dr in Ft. Collins I was looking at (Quaid?) has that if you don't have PCP approval, they won't see you.  My insurance doesn't require it, but I'm sure it will help.  Any ideas on where to start?  I've also looked at Greeley as an option but don't see much in either city recommended.

What ins do you have?  I know it is a trek, but have you thought about trying the Denver area?  My surgeon works out of University Hospital.

I have no problem going to Denver, would obviously prefer something a little closer, but it's only about an hour away. (My brother is in Broomfield and tha'ts 45 min)  I'm just concerned that I won't get someone who will say do it!  My ins is bc/bs fed and they say, bmi of 35 w/ comborbids, but didn't specify which or how many.  I have one for sure, maybe more.

well get yourself a pcp,or go back to your old one. See who they recommend for surgery. Get your blood work done, start lining up your ducks. Shows your ins you want to get healthier. If you jump to the surgeon, no med care for all this time they may have concern about sticking with medical care post op. Yearly post op appts are a must with many docs.

I live in Bailey Co and I treck all the way down to Rose Medical Center to see Dr Michael Snyder. he is a wonderful Dr and I would reccomend him to anyone!!! Before you can make an appt with him you have to go to his seminar where he describes all kinds of things and explains different things then if your still interested you make your appt to see him. Please check his office out!

Hi Jeninco,
THis may be a moot point by now. Just saw your thread. But anyway, Dr. Quaid is my surgeon in Ft. Collins. I too had a BMI of about 35 but was approved for surgery because of  other health issues and family history of diabetes and heart problems.
I would reccommend you start by contacting their office and asking to attend the nurses seminar for baratric surgery.
Best wishes for you.
Cheryl

Thanks Cheryl-it's not a moot point at all.  I'm out of town for a month and will be coming back home soon.

So you had RNY even at a lower BMI?  I've so far seen mostly bands.  Did your insurance cover if you don't mind me asking?

thanks again for your response.

I live in loveland and Dr. Quaid in fort collins is doing my surgery on 12-15

I have BCBS and did not need an approval from my PCP to have the surgery. All Dr. Quaid required was a copy of my medical records.

Now i have  BMI of 44 so that might be the differance, but i thinks you should call and talk to the office staff again b/c i have never heard of this.