Asking for referral on Monday

Hi everyone, I'm new here and have been reading the board a bit so I thought I would register and introduce myself. My name is Jess, I'm 36 and I'm asking for a referral from my Dr on Monday. I'm 215 lbs right now (after my most recent weight gain after weigh****chers) and my bmi is just shy of 37 but I've been dealing with hypertension since at least 2012.

Im really stressed about asking my Dr because he's not really a warm and fuzzy Dr Andy I'm not sure on his views of WLS. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

Nice to meet you all!

My doctor was really supportive and said he would do the referral and I could just get information and decide from there. I think you could approach it from a perspective of being concerned about developing additional health complications and just wanting to get information so you can make an informed decision. Once you get the referral you are good and can decide after that what you do. Good luck! It can be a lengthy process but worth it!

Thanks Stitch. I am really concerned about type 2 diabetes and heart disease, as my dad has both. Hopefully he'll see the benefits in a procedure like this.

I was the same. Very nervous to ask my Doctor. She is NOT great and actually told me that if everyone who wanted to lose weight had WLS we would have an 'epidemic' on our hands.

Even with her not being in favour, she still sent in my referral. I think maybe they have to if we request it. The OBN is the one along with whatever centre you get referred to who decides if you qualify or not. So really, its not up to your Dr.

I've been told from others that they obtained a referral from a walk-in, so if your doctor gives you grief, just try that route.

WLS changed my life, and if you feel that this is what is best for you than fight for it. Be your own health advocate.

Good luck, and welcome to these boards!

Thanks therealmewithin, I'm just worried about being dismissed and he's technically a good dr otherwise so I don't want to damage our relationship. I feel I don't do this I'll get bigger, older and more unhealthy and never get out. Fingers crossed!

Hi Jess, welcome!

I was nervous to talk to my doctor too. Turned out, I wasn't the first person he had referred, and he was thrilled I approached him about it!!

I had surgery 4 months ago and it was the best thing I ever did for myself. I still have a lot of weight to lose, but my life is already completely different and improved... and I'm happier than I've been in forever.

Go for it! Let us know. :)

Thanks oneatatime. That makes me feel better. If he's referred at least one person before I'll feel a lot better about it!

Even if he hasn't, feel great about your decision!!!

He referred me this morning. Turns out he has a few patients that's he referred and are very successful and he was super supportive!

Best news ever!!! I'm thrilled for you. :)

Now onto the process. Congratulations!!!