How do I begin?

Hello to all, My name is Colleen. I am from Abq. I am just at the very beginning. I am looking for help with some of the particulars. For example, How do I approach my dr.? Who are the best surgeons? Do I need to find the surgeon or will my dr.? How do I deal with my insurance (Presbyterian Health Plan)? For any one who has PHP, how reseptive are they to WLS? Of course I have a million questions, anything anyone can tell me would be most appreciated. Thanks so much in advance.

Hi, Colleen, The best way to start is by asking your doctor how he/she feels about supporting you for WLS. There are a number of good surgeons around, just not in NM. PHP is supportive as long as you meet their requirements, but right now, the only surgeon in network is Eldo Frezza in Lubbock. Probably in the next three months, Robin Blackstone in Scottsdale will be getting into the network also. Check Richard's message just below yours, and come to our next support meeting on 4/20 @ Presbyterian Medical Group next to the Northside Medical Building. Check out our website! Dr. Blackstone is also going to have a seminar on April 30, more details to follow. Her group is Scottsdale Bariatric Center. Hope to see you at a support group meeting! Jean

Hello, My name is Melissa and I am also trying to move forward with WLS. I don't feel real supported by my PCP. She has been my PCP since the age of 14. She is overly cautious and seems to be stalling me. I am ready to change my life and don't want to be overweight any longer . I have researched the procedures and all that they entail. My PCP was impressed with my research, but remains apprehensive. How do I make it clear to her that this is what is right for me? HELP!

Hi Melissa, I can understand your feelings. I am just at the beginning of this myself. It is all very overwhelming even if you have excellent support. What I can tell you is that my Dr. was reluctant at first but I just pushed ahead. I came to her with a lot of research and facts behind me. I showed her that I had really been looking into it and not just jumping in blindly. I explained that I really felt that this was tyhe right course of action for me. I also explained that even though I was asking for a referal to a surgeon, it didn't mean that I wouldn't change my mind. I just really wanted to speak with a Dr. that does the surgery so I know I had all the information. Maybe you could try this approach with your Dr. Show her you've done the research, you belong to support groups and you want to take the next step of at least getting information directly from a surgeon. Good Luck, I'll pray for you. Colleen