New to the board with a couple of questions for Keeler people

I know some one out there has to be at the Keesler program.  I have a few of questions.

1.  How busy is that clinic since Dr. Dolan left?  How much are they referring out patients?
2. Does anyone know anything about Dr. Weinstein in Mobile?  (I am going to post a message on their board as well)
3.  If you were referred out what information do you need to take to your first appt.  (Keesler has my entire med history).  Do I need to go get ALL my records from them or can I just take the 3 pages of typed history and research I have done myself.
4.  How long from first meeting until you have had a surgery date?  I am trying to plan things, but am geting discouraged because things seem to take forever in the TriCare system.
5.  Are there ANY options off-base that are local that take TriCare?

Thank you for any information you can provide.

There is a doctor in Ocean Springs (Dr. William Avara). He doesn't take TriCare, but his office might still be able to answer your questions.

http://www.smsurgicalweightloss.com/

Valorie is their insurance person.
[email protected]

Good luck on your journey.

Tammy

Hey, I livie in Laurel Ms. and i am having bypass surgery on the 24th fo Oct.  I'm having it done at Mobile Infirmary, Dr. Ringold will do my sugery. He is with a group and I really like him....Tricare is my insurance also. I called tricare and ask them to refer me to a wls dr. and they told me I would have to use a DR and hospital of excellence which Mobile Infirmary is... I hope I have been of some help   good Luck

I've never posted here before, but I live in Southern Forrest County -Carnes Community and just had my RNY on October 6th. I also have Tricare. Dr. Alfred Johnson in Picayune is recently center of excellence certified and accepts Tricare. My first meeting with him, I had a surgery date, and it was within 2 weeks at my choosing. I was referred out from Keesler since Dr. Dolan left.  Before I was at Keesler, Tricare referred me over to Mobile, but I really wanted something closer, and never went. I had already met with the Nutrition clinic and had my psych evaluation, when I met with Dr. Johnson. If you are well informed, confident and knowledgable, and have all the paperwork, chances are you will be on the schedule soon. He is out this coming week though.

Let me know if I can answer any questions for you. I'm a lurker here, but would love to help. 

Goodluck,

Brandi