Bad news but maybe Good News.........

Here is a letter I got from UMC today........ Dear Joyce: You were reffered to UMC to be considered for a weight loss surgery. Due to staffing changes, the program that you were referred to no longer exists. However, we are happy to anounce the start of a new weight management program called Healthy Weight for Life! Becasue you already had an appointment under the old program, you now have the chance to be one of the first to take part in the new program. Healthy Weight for Life will provide you with the tools you need to help you lose the weight and keep it off. If you choose to join, you will first be scheduled to take part in a 6 week class called Healthy Directions. Please note that by joining Healthy weight for Life , you are not guarenteed to be considered for weight loss surgery. You will soon be scheduled for a free appointement to give you more informaiton about Healthy Weight for Life and Healthy Directions. You will recive a UMC appointment letter in the mail saying that you have been scheduled to the weight management clinic. Classes will be held at the Jackson Medical Mall on Thursday mornings from June 9-July 14. The cost will be $180. In order to be considered for weight loss surgury, you must complete many test and evualations. The results of these test and evualations will be discussed by a team of Health Professionals who will make the decision on whether or not you will be a good canidate for weight loss surgury. If you choose not to join Healthy Weight for Life you can ask for one of the following choices: A personal appointment with a registered dietian One weight loss class Please be aware that these other choices will not allow you to be considered for weight loss surgury. If you have any questions please call 601-815-8728. Your call will be returned within 2 working days. Seems like alot of work but hey at least its a shot. I am going to do it. Did anyone else get this kind of letter. Let me know. Joyce

Hi Joyce, I really don't know what to say about all of that. Will you insurance pay that $180.00. Seems a little unfair that they say you must take their program to be considered. What type insurance do you have? Have you tried any of the other surgeons and clinics? Sue

I have BCBS of MS. If I had ins that would pay I would not have a problem getting surgury. I have having to go through Voc Rehab and there are only 2 docs in MS that take Voc Rehab that I know of. And that is Dr. Byars ( Oxford 2 yr waiting list) and Dr. S at UMC. Joyce

First I have heard of such a letter, but I don't get mail from UMC anymore! I bees off the list! Do I understand correctly that if you DO take the class, you are not guaranteed to have the surgery, but if you DON'T take the class, you CANNOT have the surgery (at UMC)? So please hand over the extra $180 and we will possibly consider you for it?????? I dunno..... I am getting very skeptical of the way this "new" program seems to be shaping up, but I would take the class if I hadn't had surgery yet and was going to UMC.... Love ya bunches and miss you! Smoochies Arlies

From what I make of it if u don't take the class then no surgury, and if u do then there is a chance u can have it. I am on the list at Oxford too. But I am going to take the class maybe it will work who knows

Hey Joyce, I received that same letter on Friday. I saw Dr. Blake last summer for a Gastric Bypass consultation that cost me $180. I had surgery with Dr. Byars in Oxford so I just tossed the letter. If you are like me you are willing to try ANYTHING to lose weight, you can go and just see what it is all about. I know how hard it is just waiting, but I know everything will work out for you. Good luck, Michelle H.

Are the key words "not gauranteed"? This seems unclear to me. Please ask for clarification. $180.00 is a chunk of money. Had you already had some tests started previously???? Had you been told you were a candidate by the other Dr.? Good Luck girl.... you are right to follow any opportunity. I support you in your endevor. I have been there and done that!!!! glenda

Glenda, who did your surgery? Smiles, Jan

I am going to ask a bunch of questions before I actually sign up. Yes I already had my PFT, and psych test done. I am schedueled for my Sleep Study May 31 at Anderson's in Meridian. Joyce

Hi Joyce! I can only imagine how frustrating it is dealing with UMC. I think you should give it a shot, I know I am having to go through the "act of congress" to get my surgery too, although I am so, so blessed to have insurance that covers it, there are sooo many doctors you have to see. Iam learning that! Just in the month of June, I have to have lab work, consult with a cardiologist, consult with a sleep doctor, get sleep test, cardio test, additonal lab work.. whew! just to name a few, but its all worth it, I just can't wait to be on the other side, the losing side! I think that's true for anyone in our shoes! I wish you the best of luck!