Frustrated!!!!

So, just when I think I'm all set to go, my PCP flat out REFUSES to give me a letter of "medical necessity"!! He'll okay me to have surgery, but, "doesn't think this is a safe surgery" and doesn't "feel I need to have it" Hello!! I am 5'3" and 300#, been on every %&^$ing diet imaginable and yet, I don't "need this surgery"!! WHAT??? Now what, start over? I am so bleeping POed!! Christine

Christine, I can't believe he is doing this to you. First of all, call your insurance company and see if this is necessary for approval. Then ask them if you can get another PCP. I have a letter that I used and it really just covers the problems that WLS has caused me and doesn't really say "I think she should have the surgery" I am sure we can change the wording around and maybe he'd sign that. If you want a copy email me at [email protected] NOT FAIR!!

Thanks Cheryl, I actually talked to my PCP about all that and how well informed I am about the surgery and he led me to believe that he was going to back me. At first I thought he wouldn't, but then after my physical, I thought he would. I should've trusted my gut! My Gyno is actually going to write me the letter. He is awesome. I've had him for eleven years and he has seen me at my heaviest & lightest. He backs me 100%. He is actually the one to suggest it. So, keep yoour fingers crossed! Christine

Hi Christine, I agree with Cheryl, see if you can switch doctors. Not just because he won't write a letter (which is grounds enough to dump him) but who wants to see a doctor that is so behind-the-times and doesn't understand that this surgery IS a medical necessity in your case? Jeez, put a freaking band-aid on your broken knee! Grrrr...I feel your pain but don't let this be a stumbling block for you.

That stinks!!!! I'm with the other ladies -- if you need to have your PCP's approval, then get another PCP. He obviously isn't sensitive to the risks/difficulties involved with carrying that extra weight. What a jerk!!! Kathy F.

Before you abandon ship... Will your PCP at least have a phone conversation with your surgeon? This sold my PCP and got him right on board. In fact, i think he was rather embarrased about how wrong the information he 'knew' was. Just a thought. If not, and you need the letter, switch PCP's! Lisa C

Christine, I had a similar problem with my PCP. It wasn't exactly that she didn't agree with the surgery but she didn't seem to want to write a letter. I called and wrote her two letters and I wound up with a hand written note on a peice of scrap paper. Well to say the least I was devestated however, my endrocronlogist had written two excellent letters and those are the ones they paid attention to. I am going back to my PCP next week for the first time since way before my surgery. This will be the test of whether or not I stay with her or find myself a different doctor. Good luck with your quest. I know things will work out. Linda