Danielle M (TRICARE)

I just wanted to see if we could help each other out here...lol... and get on the same page. Do you have a referral? Are you able to see someone outside of the network? These are the people I have called: Surgical Association in Mobile AL, They do not accept tricare as a primary insurance. South East Surgical Association in Mobile Al, they do not accept tricare at all. I am waiting to hear back from Surgical Specialists of LA, Bariatric Surgical center of central MS, Ochsner Clinic foundation in LA, Dr Avara's office in Ocean Springs (their website says they do not accept Tricare), and Dr. William Whitehead in Hattiesburg. Have you tried anywhere else? I am beginning to think this is hopeless Connie

At this point, I am beginning to think it is hopeless as well...hehe...I could smack my husband from making me put it off 3 years ago right before we left for San Diego. I let him convince me it would be for the best and then I could never get it off the ground in Cali. I even had some of my testing done....a surgeon lined up(who does not take Tricare anymore). I am so frustrated. No I have not gotten my referrel yet. I am waitng for my appointment at the MTF. They say in 14 days but I am supposed to call every morning for an appoinment. Having Tricare does not make this process easy for sure. I will definately let you know what I find out though. I guess I am doomed to be fat forever! It is bad enough that I am terrified of doctors in the first place. Why can't there be any chubby military doctors??? lol... Then I would not feel so awkward...It is kind of hard to tell someone your troubles when they look like an underwear model! YIKES! I HATE BEING SHY!!! I did not used to be shy. lol...Okay, I am gonna stop complaining now!!! Sorry about that! hehehe... ~Danielle

Hey Ladies... Dr. Whitehead does NOT accept Tricare either. I am sorry!

I just called and Dr. Avara's office at first said yes they do take Tricare and then I asked if they took it to cover the bariatric surgery and they said is it Prime or Standard, and I said Prime, then they said that they are not networked with Tricare to accept it. That does not make sense. Follow up with Darla if she does not call you back, because she may know a way around it. Hope to see you tonight. Rhonda

Darla says that they are trying to get a contract with tri-care to be able to accept it. She said it could be a week, or it could be months off. As it stands right now, looks like I won't be doing much. I am going to try and make it to the meeting tonight. I live right up the road. Connie

Ok chick! The lady just called here to get my information and she says she will call me back! I will let you know as soon as I find out...days, weeks, months...lol...who knows!!!! Have fun at the meeting tonight! Don't lose hope...we will get it done even if we have to beat on every medical clinic door in a 10 state area! Hugs, Danielle