Can anyone help? Checking out my options on medicaid

Hi everyone this is my first post, I wanted to find out if anyone knows if you can cross the border to another state with louisiana medicaid for RNY surgery. The surgeons in Louisiana that performed the surgery and accepted medicaid that I knew of were in New Orleans and due to hurricane Katrina I do not know where they are, if they are practicing, and if they will be coming back (I'm searching though). I weigh over 400 lbs and have many comorbidities. I am a single mother, a college student and really want to stay around for my 2 year old. Both parents died young (Dad 47, Mom 52) due to obesity related problems. I already have the referral from my pcp, went through all the pre-op testing and have even attended a seminar before the hurricanes. If any one could help me it would be greatly appreciated.

I now have my aunt and uncle staying with me from New Orleans. (We live in northern Illinois.) He is disabled and on Medicare and Tennent through the state of Louisiana. They told him that due to the hurricanes, the medicaid and Tennent will be accepted ANYWHERE in the country for 6 months. He has had his numberous prescriptions filled and visited the ER yesterday and everything is covered. I hope this helps.... Dawn

Who was to be your surgeon? I'm sure I can find him/her for you. You might also ask this question in the Louisiana forum.