New Here

Hi, My name is Karen and I live in Sevierville TN. I was initially interested in the DS but I haven't been able to find a doctor who does it who takes my insurance. I have Blue Care Tenn Care. I've finally settled on the RNY and will be attending a seminar in Nashville tomorrow. I found a group of doctors there who do take my insurance. I'm excited about having made this decision. I just wish the process didn't have to take so much time. It will be hard having the sugery so far away from home but we will manage. Is there anyone else out there in the Sevierville area? Blessings, Karen

Hi Karen and welcome to our board. I live in Morristown. Have you checked with Dr. Hodges or his partner Watson in Johnson City? They take your insurance. Even my surgeon in Maryville won't do the DS, gastric or lapband only. I wish you the very best as you go after your dream. May God travel with you on this new Journey, Kathy

Kathy, Thanks for all your help and for the information. Johnson City would be much closer but I really like the program in Nashville. I hope you will share your story with me. I'm hoping to find out everything I need to know about the procedure so I can be prepared. Thank you again. Blessings, Karen

Karen, I have the same insurance & I used Dr. Hodge in Johnson City. They (Dr. Watson & Dr. Hodge) are both good surgeons. They do the RNY. I had the lap. RNY & I have done great. They at least would be much closer for you & not such a long drive after your surgery. I know I was glad mine was only a 2 hour drive instead of a 3 1/2 one. Best of luck to you & keep us updated. Sara.

Sara, Thanks for all your help. It would be easier to go to Johnson City but I attended the Seminar in Nashville today and met the man who will be my surgeon. He is very nice and I think I"m going to stick with him. His name is Dr. McDowell. I'm very excited but the nurse there said it takes a while to get approval from TennCare. I was hoping I wouldn't have to wait too long. How long did you have to wait for your approval? Anything you can tell me about what I need to do to increase my chance for approval I would be grateful for. Blessings, Karen

Sara: Just curious do you know what the program fee with Watson and Hodge is? I am probably using Dr. Colquitt but I'm curious to hear other program fees.