Newbie looking for info/guidance

Hi, everyone!  I just found this site and it is fabulous!

My name is Suze.  I've been overweight all of my life and despite losing and gaining many hundreds of pounds over the years, I've never been able to keep it off.  I've been considering weight loss surgery for several years now, but always hoped I could do it "on my own".  I'm sure you all know what it's like. 

But recently, I've found that even with healthy eating and exercise (as much as I can manage, anyway), the weight is just not coming off.  How annoying!  So, I'm starting to do some serious research into the possibility of weight loss surgery.

I've seen from other posts that there are bariatric surgeons who accept Medicare - that is SUCH a relief.  I was sure that I was going to have to pay entirely out of pocket.  Have any of you had experience with WLS using Medicare insurance?  I would love to find out anything I can about the process, dos and don'ts, etc.

I live in Bangor and have seen that Dr. Toder has very positive feedback from the folks here.  Can I just call up her office to make a consultation appointment, or does it have to come from my PCP? 

I don't even know what else to ask!  If any of you have any tips or guidance for the best way to get started, I would love to hear it.  I am sick and tired of being sick and tired and I'm finally ready to seriously consider this incredible tool for helping to make myself healthy and well.  Thanks!

Hi Suze
I am sorry I am not going to be any help for you I am in southern Maine and go to Portland. I know you will get someone here to help you out, it's a great bunch. I just wanted to welcome you to the board and wish you luck with your wls journey... hope to hear from you again...

Hi Suze - welcome!

Your pcp will need to refer you to the program. First they will have you attend an info session with the nutrionist. If you decide to continue from there you will go through a series of appointments witfh the nutrionists, a physical therapist and a psycological exam before you actually see a surgeon. Once you get your referral from you pcp, EMMC will lead you through the process.

Best wishes, I was one of "those people" who always thought I could do it on my own - I was wrong.

Thanks for the info!  I'll definitely talk to my PCP about getting a referral.  

I, too, can't help you much with the program up there, but I DID want to welcome you to the Maine board!  There are a great bunch of people here and I'm sure someone will be able to answer your questions!!!!

I know I can relate to your story!  Congrats on taking this first step!!!!
Keep us posted on your journey!

Jump right in and keep asking/posting!  Welcome !!!!
Ruth

http://www.emmc.org/surgical_weight_loss.aspx?id=29904

Start here and call and schedule and information session. You can get your referral from PCP before or after the info session (although they like it better if they receive it before). 

Good luck!  I'm in the middle of the process, it takes quite awhile and you have to keep at it and not give up. I called last August and I finally have my surgery consult this month. 

This is great!  Thank you!

Hi   Suze 

Yes  have  a  referral  from your pcp  and  that will get you started

They say is it about a  9 month process tho some go faster.

My son also started in August and meets with dr toder this  month.
probably  will be june or july before he has his surgery.

Welcome to the Maine forum.

Patty

Welcome Suze.  I have not yet had surgery (scheduled with Dr. Toder for June 8th) but have been watching this site ever since I went for my orientation back in November.  The people are GREAT on this page--they provide a lot of information.  I had to get a referral from my PCP.  Also, you should plan to attend as many of the support groups as you can--they are great.

Good Luck.