Any suggestions?

Hi, My name is Billie Jo I live in Spokane Washington and I have a question/advice?

I just recently started to see a new Dr. and the first thing out of his mouth was "I'm not to fond of weight loss surgery" "If they can cut up your stomach to make you eat less then why go through the hassle and just eat less?"  I was unsure of what to say. I was shocked of course.

He read in my old medical records from my previous Dr that I was seeking help for my obesity and all my other health conditions. I'm kind of lost on what I should do and, how I should approach him? Or should I even ask him for help?

I like to give people the benefit of the doubt. I'm always looking for the best in people. Any advice/help would be great.

Thanks
-Billie

Have you already had surgery? If so, I would show him the great health "gains" you have had because of WLS.

If you have not yet had the surgery then approach him about the overwhelming benefits WLS can provide you. You would hope he would be open minded to this option. If he is still dead set against it ~ find a new PCP... they are a dime a dozen.

Thanks for the response S.A.R.A. I haven't had the surgery yet. I'm hoping my Dr will have a change of heart. 

I think I'll have a list for him the next time I see him. I know I'll benefit from it.  Its just trying to get him to see the benefits. But if not, dose anyone have a good PCP here in Spokane who has helped patients like myself? (not a Bariatric surgeon but a normal PCP)

Hey Billie----
   I am so sorry that he said that to you---If your insurance covers the surgery and you qualify for it then you should be able to have the surgery---the way I see it is you have two options---1) Make another appointment with your PCP and tell him this is what you want---he does not have the right to Deny you a covered benefit---tell him that you understand he is against WLS---however you are not---and that if he can not or will not help you with the referral then you will seek medical treatment elsewhere. Or 2) Just change PCP's now and try it again---you need to be able to approach your health care provider with honesty and he is obviously opinionated and ignorant to the benefits of WLS----your insurance may ask why you want to change providers---(mine does) just tell them that you feel he is not going to be willing to help you with your medical needs---I would tell them what he said---

 Best of luck to you!
Maureen 

Thanks Maureen and Marrilou for the advice it was encouraging and helpful information. I'm going to get another visit with him as soon as possible. I know that this is what I want and I shouldn't let anyone stand in the way.

My goal is to live a happy healthy life....again thanks for the encouraging advice.

-Billie

My Dr. did not like the idea of weight loss sugery, I talked with several other Dr.'s and,  Dr OH in Federal Way  explained all I need to know. Seven years ago I had RNY and would do it over again, I know it saved my life. The life style change is what dose the trick not the sugery! Do your research and make up your mind by what is best for you.


Merrilou

Hi Billie Jo, I am close to getting a date for surgery.  I would have been so lost without the support of my regular doctor.  He has encouraged me, looked after me, and has been such moral support for me.  You should have a gp that does that for you.  My advice would be to find one that does.. good luck

Think i'd be moving on. if he thinks we are pigs at the trough and do not eat reasonable portions, or that 1/2 cup portions are all we DESERVE, he can't take care of you after surgery, either.

A generic idea of "less" is kinda "high school boy", doncha think? what is less? less than what? Less than a whole cow? Less than a chicken leg? Less than what? That we ARE eating, which must be HUGE. Anyone can see THAT, right?

I guess I easily take offense that someone is judging my character and intelligence based on a physical disease that is INCURABLE and can only be treated, for the rest of myy life.

I've been in cognito for 15 yrs now and the stuff I hear about "those icky fat ppl" makes my blood boil over. And does NOT get past me.

You do not deserve this. None of us do. Find a doc *****cognizes that you have a physical disease and you are ready to start the treatment that can put it into remission.

Thanks for the support and the advice everyone. I've made an appointment with one of the Female Dr's at the office.  I'm hoping she will have a better understanding of what I'm going through and, she'll want to truly help, me not hamper me.

I'm not to outspoken and I think that's my downfall...
But again thanks for the support and advice its greatly appreciated.

-Billie Jo

Everyone had good things to say but I think you did the best thing which as to get a woman doctor.  If you find that she is not supportive, then ask around until you find just the right one.  i would have had my surgery about 5 years earlier if i had the support i have now from my doctor.  To some it seems like the easy way out but only because they don't know much about it.

I worked with doctors for years and trust me that they usually think they are right all of the time.  Be your own best advocate to get the best care for you.  Good luck.

Candace