Looking....

I am looking for a surgery option without all the hassle the EMMC program has, as far as the group meetings and the waste of time premeeting stuff. I knew everything in the mandatory meeting about nutrition and the 15 minute talk about how to get items to help you clean yourself after bathroom breaks and such. In fact all they did was regertitate what was written in the booklet they give you. Any one with common sense can read it and know everything. I want to go in see a doctor, do the psych thing if its mandatory under mainecare and get the surgery dates setup. I certainly didn't go thru this to have other types of surgery in the past. Any info would be appreciated. Thank YOu

Hello Anthony, I think EMMC has one of the lowest wait times for surgery. I had completed all of my pro op testing and required meetings etc, had all my post op appointments set up for counciling and dietician and my surgeon retired. I am now on a waiting list, a very long one for a new surgeon in Lewiston. I have been waiting on a list for an initial consultation since the beginning of June, once I get in I'll have to start all over again. I hear Portland is an even longer wait. All the information and time seemingly wasted testing is to make sure you are fit enough to survive the surgery and to give you the best chance at success with losing and keeping it off. We all wish we could schedule our surgeries tomorrow. Please hang in there, good things come to those who wait. Ann C

I just read that post and something didn't sound right. The testing is to eliminate the possibilities of other health issues that may cause complications. If there are other issues, those should be treated prior to surgery. Have a great night. Ann C

I was more frustrated by the unnecessary meetings. I have not received any info that a psych evaluation is required under Mainecare either.

I hear ya, I've felt so frustrated waiting, driving more than an hour to meetings to hear information i've known for a long time by proeprly researching this surgery myself. but I'm sure there are some people who don't really know what they're getting into or what to expect after. I think the psych eval is required, but I would check with the office personel regarding those requirements. If they don't help, contact Mainecare. The one thing everyone here has in common is we all keep plugging away and jumping through whatever hoop is put in front of us so we can get this life saving tool. I wish you the best of luck with your journey, i hope you find your shortcut. Ann C