approved

Ahh!!! Well, it appears to be official - I can and am going to have WLS. Just got approval from my secondary insurance today. Still waiting on the primary, but know that the secondary will cover the process. Yippy!!!! Hopefully will have a date set soon! Andrea

Hi Andrea- Welcome to the board- I actually just joined it a few weeks ago myself. There are many supportive people here, I hope you will find it helpful. For whatever it's worth, I thought I'd let you know what I'm doing. I live in the Des Moines area and am having my WLS done an hour from where I live. I chose to go to Grinnell even though there are several doctors closer to my home. I'm sure these local doctors are fine doctors, but I have a sense of calm knowing that I am going to a group of doctors that have done many of these surgeries. Also, get advice from your family doctor. Mine had some insight into WLS surgeons and yours might too. My advice to you is to thoroughly check out your surgeon, ask any questions you might have, and see if there are some references you can talk to. Also trust your gut instincts- you can get a good feel for a doctor by meeting him/her even just once. I do agree with your husband that some doctors new to WLS will be up on the latest research and techniques. Good luck on whatever you decide- Lori

I agree with Lori. Go with an experienced doctor! I researched A LOT before I choose to go to Grinnell- I live in Des Moines, too. Doctors who have a great track record far out weigh the convienience of someone close. Jeri H. -70, 7/11/03

i wouldnt worry. its a great hospital and you will be watch very closely. the support group at trinty south, meets the 2 monday of the month, has heard great things about these doctors. mary jo

Andrea, I know how you feel. Initially when I started my journey, it appeared that for insurance reasons I would have to have surgery locally. The local Dr. here performed 79 surgeries in 2002. My family doctor recommend the Bariatric Treatment Center in Rockford. My surgeon there (Dr. Boe) performed 450 surgeries in 2002. A big difference in my eyes. I had to wait a few months to change insurance companies to cover the IL center, but I am so glad I did. This is major surgery and YOU have to be comfortable with your surgeon and the program. I can tell you that I felt a ton of weight (figuratively ) lifted off my shoulders when I made the decision to have surgery in IL. I am now 5 months out and down about 75 pounds. If you have any questions about the BTC program, let me know. - Janine

Congrats Andrea! You have just crossed one of the biggest hurdles! Now comes the acceptance of the major lifestyle change. Make sure you know exactly what you are getting into- it will make the whole journey easier!

wow that is great news i'm so happy for you, i hope everything goes good for you I will keep you in my prayers. god bless you.