How do I get started for a referral?

Hi Everybody! I am wondering if anybody can give me some feedback on how to get the referral process started from my Manitoba GP and to hopefully get MB Blue Cross coverage. I have spent quite a bit of time researching things but I want to get the ball rolling with my Dr. now. I was initially going to pursue gettting the Lap Band but I don't think that I can manage payment on my own now. It sounds like the gastric bypass surgeries may be a more permanent solution anyway. I am just desperate to live my life with my children in a body different than the one I have now! Thank you in advance for any information or guidance you can provide! Karen Mackie Hazelridge, Manitoba

Hi Karen, I had open RYN surgery on March 13, 2008. Through this website and emailing Manitobans I decided on Dr. Nohr out of Medicine Hat, Alberta and asked my family doctor for a referral to him. Manitoba Health paid for my airfare for an appt with Dr. Nohr in May 2007 to discuss surgery (I had to wait from 2004 to 2007 for an appointment). I had surgery in March 2008 and MB Health paid the travel, medical & hospital costs. I know another woman from Wpg who had lap RYN with Dr. Star in Toronto and did not have to wait as long. She is pretty happy with her results. MB Health will pay the cost of the surgeon and travel but your doctor has to make a request for every visit, etc.... check out MB Health website http://www.gov.mb.ca/health/mhsip/oop.html Hope this helps. Diane Wpg MB You can email me at [email protected] if you have any questions or check out my profile.