Tricare Prime and RNY

Hello all! We just moved to a Prime Remote (over 100 miles from MTF) and I am wanting to start the process from gastric bypass lap rny. If any one has any information to pass on to make this a smooth journey for me it would be appreciated. Do I need a referral from my civilian doc to get a cconsult from a surgeon. I am in the NorthEast region. Thank you in advance!

I forgot to mention, I am 5'3" and 280.5 pounds

yes, you do need to get a referral from you civilian doc.. best of luck

Erica, Hello, Check to see which bariatric surgeons in the area accept Tricare, and research them. Go to their informational seminar (these are usually free) Get the referral from your PCM for your first choice. I had surgery 6 months ago, and getting approved is relatively simple. You will need the following: These you will need referral from your PCM: I would make an appointment to talk with him/her and explain what you are wanting to do, and that you need their support. If they are not willing, then get another PCM who will. Psyc eval. Nutritionist/Dietician eval. (this may not be covered by Tricare) Pulmonologist eval. - this may entail a sleep study to check for sleep apnea Have the PCM order the following blood test: Full Chem panel Cholesteral TSH or full thyroid panel Hypolori - this is to check for bacteria known to cause ulcers. Check B vitamins, protein, and anything else not listed. This will give you a head start on what is needed. The surgeon may require some other things but this is the basics. Good luck.

Thank you very much. I received a referral to a bariatric surgeon about 40 minutes from me.

I just got approved for RNY with Prime. I had to have: cardiac OR pulmonary clearance--I had cardiac 6 month supervised diet test for sleep apnea--I have it phsyc eval pcm letter of approval and drug and alcohol free letter hpylori blood screen thyroid screen I am 340 and 5'5" we sent my packet to tricare on 6/26. I was approved today!

Hi Mandy!! CONGRATS!!! So youre in Cinci..cool where are you  all stationed?