Delurking to ask--where do you start?

I have been lurking for awhile, but after today's doctor visit, I need advice. 

I went to see my long term gp to get a referral or suggestions on a bariatric surgeon.  The gp basically said no way no how.  He doesn't feel the surgery is at all right for me, that I am not that overweight(BMI-42.4), I don't have any weight related health issues(no diabetes, choles. fine, bp good) and the surgery itself is not a good idea.  He also doesn't believe that medical support(diet aids) are good either.  He suggested that I just learn to treat my body like the temple it is and pray for the Lord to guide my diet. 

After looking to him for advice, I am now just depressed.  Where would you suggest I go next?

TIA

Amie

First question, is your gp right?  What does your gut tell you? 

If he is right, then go with what he says.  If not, if you soncerely feel that you need something else, then first go to your insurance and see what parameters they have.  That may help you structure you journey.

If your ins has parameters you meet for surgery, see if they have approved surgeons and go to them.

If your ins requires a referral from a gp, maybe find a local gp that is more openminded than yours.

My 2 cents worth.

First off, welcome to our board!!!  I hope you'll get all the answers and support you need from us.  I had a similar problem when I finally decided this is what I needed to do (but my surgery was 6 years ago and I thought this type of mindset was long gone by now).  Anyway, my gp told me that WLS wasn't for me either and that I just needed to stick to my guns and count calories and excersize.  I was 425lbs at that time.  Anyway, I went to my annual female check up and mentioned it to her, she agreed and did the referral without delay.  I am very thankful to her, funny thing is that my gp (same one I had back then) is referring people for WLS often now.  Try not to be discouraged, just go to a different doctor and talk with them. 

Best of luck!!!

Thanks ladies!!

I am so confused now.......I know that for a very long time I wasn't obese.....then came steriods for allergies, and meds to get pg......then 5 pg in 6 years.....and all along the way I ate way way too much.....for 12 years I have felt that I could do it on my own.  Now I am pretty sure I need help, I need different tools. 

Not to sound dumb but, I can just call up the insurance and ask them what their requirements are?

Youre' not sounding dumb... we've all been there. 

I know I can call my insurance company up, but they also have an online site (I have Blue Cross Blue Shield) and it has all the information also.  It seems that most of the time the insurance company needs a referral.  (If they do need one and you really feel this is your only hope then don't be afraid to go see another doctor, that's what 2nd opinions are for.)  Some insurance companies or weight loss surgeons also require a certain amount of time being on a documented diet (supervised or not), so you may want to check that out also.  Find out what the requirements are so you'll know what you need to do from here. 

Anwyay, good luck! 

Sheryl

I did not get the support from my reg. doctor, but I proceed with the  process anyways. My BMI was 35, but I do have med. conditions. You just need to do what you feel is right for you. Good LUck LINDA

Amie - I can't really add anything to what Sheryl told you, but I would start with my insurance company, too. 

Welcome to the NC board.... you will find tons of infomation here and genuine support.

Shelia

Hi Amie,

It's nice to meet you and I look forward to getting to know you as you make your way to a healthier you. I'm glad that you have joined us and please know that there really isn't such a thing as a 'stupid' question. We all have to start somewhere and you will find that others often learn from your questions and the resulting answers, so please do feel free to ask questions.

A BMI of 42.4 is significant and is like a loaded grenade, with the pin pulled. It's likely to go off sooner than later.

When I decided to pursue WLS, I was forturnate to have the full support of my GP, but my endocrinologist was against it. I listened to his reasoning, put it in the mix and still decided that WLS was necessary for me to get control of my short and longterm health. I just didn't consult him regarding this issue anymore and to be honest, I no longer need to consult re: anything else because my type 2 diabetes has resolved! If you really like your GP and aren't willing to switch, you might see if your OB/GYN would be willing to help. If not, consider getting a new GP. To be honest, I probably would anyway because you'll need their support in the long run re: labs, etc...

Robin and Sheryl are right about contacting your insurer to find out what your coverage is and what the requirements and limitations are... It's a good starting place.

Wishing you all the best,

Regarding insurance approval.  Most, if not all, insurance companies use a BMI of 40 without co-morbidities, or a BMI of 35 with co-morbities as a barometer.  At 42 you are above the measuring stick most insurance companies use.  There is no way to know that for sure without calling the company.  There is probably an 800 number on the back of your card, and maybe a website that you could visit.  This was my first step because without insurance there was no point in pursuing this surgery further, as I cannot afford to pay out of pocket.

Regarding your general practitioner.  I think, were it me, I would find a different one regardless of whether or not you need a referral for a WLS consult.  If you do decide to pursue this you will need a gp that understands and accepts your decision.  Based on his judgemental response to your question, I doubt that you will get that kind of support post op. 

Good luck and let us know how it goes.
Ellen

Your doc actually said that you should pray for the Lord to guide your diet?!?

!?!

?!?


Now, I have *nothing* against people of faith.  I have a *serious* problem with any health professional that suggests prayer to treat obesity.

!?!

?!?

My answer?  Get a new doc.  Hell, even if you don't get the surgery, I'd *still* say get a new doc.  What would happen if you caught pneumonia, or worse?  Would he suggest prayer rather than antibiotics and medicine?

And if your doc feels that 42.4 is a "normal" weight, then he needs to not be in practice anyway.