Since I am the new guy :wave:

Hey guys, I figured that maybe I should give ya'll a little background since I have responded a couple of times. I am kind-of stuck in the process somewhat, I started about two years ago. I first went to Dr.Ken Cleveland in Jackson, but by Ins. (UHC) would not cover the surgery and I could not pay OOP. I changed Insurances and went to see Bryan Freeman in Anniston and started with the seminar, Dr. Visit, ultrasound, nitricianist, etc. and had my insurance revoke previous authorizations and put the nix on things. My insurance changed (Acclaim) and I was given the choice of returning to Dr. Cleveland in Jackson or going to UAB in Birmingham and chose to return to Dr. Cleveland. After completing the process again, my insurance revoked the approval for surgery because they said that my employer had additional restrictions that specifically listed WLS as not covered. Again, a lot of visits OOP. More recently I have contacted Voc Rehab (thanks to a friendly suggestion!!) and seem to back on track. I meet with Dr. Salameh 11/29. I work at a hospital heading up a behavioral medicine department. I have been in counseling for about 13 years and enjoy the medical aspects of behavioral medicine. I work full time in Pain Treatment, but work after-hours for other types of counseling, including the evals for bariatric surgery, counseling for public safety professionals (I've been a paramedic/firefighter for almost 15 yrs), and special cir****tances. I have taken a special interest in bariatric surgery (for obvious reasons) but also because preparing people for successful surgery is part of my 8-6 job. I am excited about participating in the boards, so be patient if I am long-winded sometimes. I come by it natrally. james.

sigh....my very own favoriest Psyco Doc!!! We are so glad that you are joining us!!! I thought the hurry up and wait and wait and wait and wait...was TOO much...I think I'd be telling my insurance company that I "knew people who knew people who knew people" if they pulled all that on me! But I have renewed hope today! Now, get your sweet face up on the board so that everybody can see who we are talking to! And as for long-winded - join the crowd!!!! Smoochers & hugs Arlies

HI James, Welcome to the Board! ~Jo~

Congratulations!!!!!

Hey "New Guy" Welcome to our sounding board. Lots of really nice people here, you'll like us Take care, James! Keri

Hey Dr. Gilbert, I am very glad that you could join us. Joyce

Hey James Welcome to the Boards. It's great to have another guy out here. We make up the small minority of people having WLS, but tend to reach our goals quicker and easier. Clearly that's due to male physiology Rather than superiority. It's great having a knowledgeable person, Particularly someone in pain treatment, with all of The pain associated with Pre-Op co-morbidities As well as Post-Op and Post Plastic Surgery Pain. We may "come knockin'" for advice. I'm 15 months Post-Op, Down from 385lbs to 192lbs. And I've had more complications Than the living usually get to experience. I say this to let you know you can ask Me about nearly any aspect, And as a man, I may have an answer. Know that even with the complications, I'd do it again in a heartbeat. Hope we can be of help For information, experience and support. And you thought you were long winded."lol" Best Wishes- Dx

Welcome Dr.Gilbert!!! ............Sherry...

Hey James! Ahem, excuse me Dr. Gilbert, lol! WELCOME TO THE BOARD!! Glad you decided to join us and Im excited that you are using Dr. Salameh,too. I also have an appt. on Nov. 29th for a follow-up. Maybe I'll se ya there! Kristi