transferring hospitals

Today I was supposed to meet my surgeon for the first time. My insurance company told me on Thursday that i can't go out of network. So, 6 weeks away from surgery, i'm looking for a new program. I've had an appt with a psychologist, a nutritionist and an internist. I had blood work and a urinalysis and i went to an introductory meeting in November (Mass. General was where i got started.) I also had a sleep study done on Feb. 5 and get the results next week when i see the pulmonary doc. again. Has anyone had any experience with transferring to a different hospital after starting the process? I'm thinking of going to Portsmouth Regional Hospital. I'm going to call but am looking for feedback from anyone who might have had to transfer information. Is it acceptable to them? will i have to start over at square 1? thanks for your help.

Sorry to hear about that...insurance is such a pain. I did not have to transfer but from reading on the boards most will take all your work as long as its within a year and you met there programs requirements. Just give them a call and find out....most programs are willing to work with you...They understand what a battle it can be with insurance companies. Good Luck Carolyn

thanks carolyn. yes, ins. stuff is a pain. i feel like starting a new business doing all the footwork for people battling this stuff ...it's like a part time job ...and there were times that i would have PAID someone to make those calls or copies, send those e-mails, etc. BUT, all the jumping through hoops is making me stronger and smarter, you know? The folks at MGH have been wonderful and have already told me they will send me all of my paperwork so that i can forward it to ...wherever.

Hi Sherry, Sorry for your problems. I had my surgery at Portsmouth and they are great. I don't know about transferring but I can give you the phone # for the Bariatric Coordinator. Her name is Nancy Seesman maybe she can help you. Her e-mail is: [email protected] Her Phone is: 603-334-2006 The Drs. phone is : Atlantic Surgery Associates: 603-431-5242. I hope this will help you. Good Luck Roxanne

thanks a lot! I just sent an e-mail to Nancy. it's really hard to have a private conversation here at work. I'm glad to know you had good experience there. s