Internist/PCP Referral (Cross Post)

Does anyone have a recommendation for a good internist or primary care physician (PCP), in/near Smyrna, that is familiar with gastric bypass patients' needs? I'm especially needing one that KNOWS how to 'code' all the blood tests we need every 3 months. My interist refused to order my pre-op tests without the surgeon providing the codes!! The office says that the PCP determines the codes. Thankfully, the surgeon's office gave me a script to order them because my surgery is March 13th. It seems ludicrous to me that a doctor doesn't know how to 'code' necessary blood tests. But I just called another doctor that was suggested and was told the same thing!! For those of you who have had the surgery, who determines the blood test 'codes'? Is it the surgeon or your PCP? Did you have these problems too? I sure don't want to end up without the necessary follow-up. I'm not going through this surgery just to have my health ruined because it's not monitored correctly afterward!! Thanks alot!! Sue

Hey i use Dr. Eden English, she is over at Cobb Wellstar Hospital area. SHe has done all of my blood work, but does it every 6 months. She has never asked my surgeon for anything,. maybe this will help

Thanks Tammy! I really appreciate it. Sue

Hey Sue.. Its me!!! Fun to see you last night...am so excited for you!!!! My PCP is in Acworth but is awesome....her name is Dr. Bhwanna Khanna....let me know if you want to drive that far and I will get you the info...someone from this board referred me to her when I first moved here and have went to her ever since..... Ann

Thanks Ann! I have an appointment Monday with an Internist that was suggested by another patient of Dr Smith's. I talked with the nurse and she said they have no problems ordering blood tests for patients. I'll check the doctor out and if he seems okay, I'll see him again 3 months after my surgery and then transfer my records to him. Sue

Oh awesome.....I hope it works out...if you need another one, just let me know...take care!!!!! Ann