Dr frustration

Yes....like I said the co morbidities might get you thru being under a 40 BMI,  but the ultimate decision is theirs of course.

Are you or have you by chance been involved with any specialists for any of your conditions???? ( just a thought)

I hope she calls you soon with some answers, and maybe you can get this ball rolling, but don't be afraid to bug and pester . People here on OH will be the first to tell you a lot of this process and making sure you get the best care and advice depends hugely on advocating for yourself. 

Good luck !! keep us posted.

That's so frustrating for you. As others said, it doesn't have to be your family doc. If you see a specialist for any of your conditions, cardiologist, obgyn etc.

also, maybe double check your doc has the current info regarding eligibility. I might be wrong, but I was under the impression that until relatively recently, to qualify with a BMW under 40, you needed a min of two comorbidities. 

That still seems to be the norm in the us too. 

Also, go armed with a list of every weight loss attempt you've made. 

Keep advocating for your self!

here are the qualifications of the surgical program... I would take a copy to your doctor... maybe they don't have the info

Are you eligible for the Surgical Program?

Eligibility:

• 18 years of age and older
• BMI greater than or equal to 40
• BMI greater than or equal to 35 but less than 40. With at least one of the following comorbidities (as determined by your physician):
  • Coronary heart disease
  • Type II Diabetes mellitus
  • Hypertension
  • Diagnosed sleep apnea
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Ineligibility (not limited to):

• Current drug or alcohol dependency (within 6 months of referral)
• Recent major cancer (life threatening, within last 2 years)
• Untreated or inadequately treated psychiatric illness

Thank you.

I could not figure out how to copy and paste to here.

So as far as there requirements....I do qualify 

I didn't go this route but I have heard that if you go to  a walk in clinic they will refer you as long as you meet the criteria.  Again, I don't know this from first hand experience, but it may be worth a try.  

What is involved with the medical program versus surgical? Is it possible to do the medical program first and if you aren't happy/successful with that to then transfer to the surgical program?

I would try a different route if I were you. One of the appointments in the long process is with a psychologist, I had this last week, and one of the questions they ask is "do you have a good relationship with your family Dr" "Will they be supportive of you after this process"  I was told that they want to know this because they expect you to go to your family Dr first for most situations/problems/concerns after surgery and then to turn to the Bariatric clinic if your family Dr is unable to handle a specific situation. 

Sounds like having someone who is on-board to refer you could be a big plus in the long run.