How long do you wait

Hello,

My doctor sent a referral out for the surgery and I am wondering what is the wait time in Ontario to get a call from them and then to actually get in and get the surgery?

I just started my journey too.

My doctor sent the referral on August 13th, and I just got the call today that TWH would be contacting me for orientation - so 2 months, just for that step.

from the date i saw my doctor until orientation was 6 months, it takes a long time 

2 yrs. for me

I think it was about a month and a half to be notified of the appointment and 3 months till the orientation. I have just started this process too. 

To the best of my knowledge, it really depends on where you live and which centre you will be going to for your surgery.

My timeline is below, and I know that in Ottawa, it's common to have about a year between the referral and the actual surgery date.

But it's a process. It's wise to use that time to learn about how it all goes, how you need to eat post-op, what types of complications COULD arise and what can be done to resolve them, etc. It's also good to use that time to adopt new habits that will see you through the surgery and beyond into your new life.

Additionally, in that year, other tests and procedures are ordered to properly clear you for this major surgery. Many have to have a sleep study. An abdominal ultrasound. A fair bit of blood work. I had to have a lung functioning test. I also had an EKG (I have a heart murmur). So it all depends on your personal health and underlying issues or weight-related comorbidities.

My timeline is below. Again, keep in mind that this is for Ottawa. All centres in Ontario are different.

Wishing you lots of luck on this incredible journey!

My Dr. sent my referral on August 6 and I haven't gotten a phone call yet... hopefully it comes soon! 

Edit- You post prompted me to call  TWH to see what was happening with my referral. Apparently they sent me an invitation but I never received it! Oof.  

I'm in the beginning stages as well.  When I sent my referral, waited a couple of weeks (as I live in Guelph, no brainer as to where I would have surgery) called the Bariatric Clinic was then told it could take up to 6 weeks to be contacted after referral sent.  It all depends on how busy they are, I'm guessing?  I'm going to orientation in November...I think after orientation, it's about 3 months to the 1st appt, then another 6 - 8 weeks or more to the 2nd, meet the surgeon, etc, from what I've seen, most often it's about 1 year or more from referral to surgery, depending if you are ready physically as well as mentally? Good luck on your WLS journey!!

I was referred February 2013. Had my orientation August 2013. Since then, I've had loads of tests, blood work etc., and on October 20th this month, I go see the internist in Hamilton. I'm hoping to have surgery by spring of next year, at least! Been a long haul, but I've learned many things about myself along the way.

There's many factors in playing the waiting game, so hang in there!