Just Starting

Hi, Just starting the process to find a surgeon and inquire about Sask Health help covering the cost of WLS (Lap Band if possible). Does anyone know of a good surgeon, where one might be, any type of coverage offered in Sask, anything about out of province surgery? Any info would be muchly appreciated. Anyone wanting to persue partnering up and organizing the costs of possibly car pooling etc to cover costs of out of town or out of province procedures..... Would love to hear from someone... Kris Prince Albert

I am in the exact same boat as you are Kris. I also live in Prince Albert. I am so confused and don't even know where to start. I cannot afford to go out of country to have the procedure done and would love to have it done in edmonton or calgary but dont' know where to begin.

Hi Kris and Glenna, I am in Saskatoon and have been doing a lot of research over the last three weeks. There are doctors in Edmonton and Calgary that do the surgery but I am told that wait is years (about 1 - 2 years on average). I have also received conflicating information as to whether or not it is covered by Saskatchewan Health. I have decided to go to Mexico for the surgery - the best price I have found is $8000 all inclusive including flights with Dr. Joya who I have read on the sites is very experienced and well respected. I will then try and submit the costs for coverage but, at the very least, you can claim it on your income tax. My concern was where to get the fills done. I've heard that the doctors in Calgary won't do your fills unless you are their patient. The clinic in Ontario has a DVD to teach your family doctor how to do them but I don't know whether they will provide it to non-patients. I'm seeing my doctor this week to determine options and whether she would be willing to learn the procedure. However, just now on this site I found a post by a RN who has the lap band and has learnt how to do the fills and is willing to give them to other patients! She's here in Saskatoon. I've contacted her for more info.

Hi Kris, I had the lap band surgery done on Jan 11/07 and have lost around 50 pounds so far, if you want to know more just give me a call or email me and I can help you find more information. Shirley Little Bear Lake

Hi Shirley, Thanks for the reply. I actually had surgery as well now. Where did you get your surgery done and who does your fills? Would love to hear your story and how you are doing with eating now. I am still on mushies now but have a hard time sticking to not eating regualr foods, and/or knowing the difference. Talk to you soon, Kris