Triwest

I live in So. California. I'm struggling with my current PCM on submitting an authorization to get a gastric bypass.  Does anyone know PCM within the Tricare Prime system that are in So Cal. who would aprove me and wouldn't make me go through a 6 month diet and counseling sessions before they submit authorizations?

Hi..:) I live in the San Diego area.  I have triwest as well.  My PCM approved me without any issues.  I saw her on Oct. 19, 2007.  I was then referred to San Diego Naval Medical Center-Balboa, where I had the Surgeon Consult on November 26.  He then had me do several pre-op testing, and I was scheduled for surgery 1/8/08.  I did not have to do 6 month diet. I did do 3 educational classes, a psych eval, and several nutritional consults...hope that helps you.  I think the reason I didn't have to do the 6 month is that I had sufficient "time" of previous dieting that my surgeon let me bypass the 6 month.   Kelly

FYI Tricare does not require a 6 month diet for approval.  I would go to the Tricare websit and find a doctor within the network and request for a new PCM.

Ditto

I was approved for the RNY and the Lapband for tricare and neither time was a 6 month diet session required.  I am having my surgery on 1/30/08 for the lapband.  Like the previous poster, you may have to select another PCM who is weight loss friendly.