Is there a way to have surgery without my PCP's approval?

Hi.. My PCP is normally pretty cool and at first I thought she would be very supportive with my desire for surgery. I have been overweight since 9 years old (I'm now 31). I am 5'11" and weigh 278 pounds with a BMI of 38.8. I have High Cholesterol, borderline high blood pressure, and sleep apnea. She seemed very supportive until she asked about my diet history. She asked me the diets I've been on. I told her that I've been on alot of diets. Most times I lost about 20 pounds and then gained it back later. She asked me the names of the diets. I told her that they were one I made up myself (such as cutting out all junk food and limiting calories) and also working out at the gym. I guess they didn't count, since they weren't known diets like weightwatchers. She told me "You need to diet and exercise!" DUH...I've only tried that about a hundred times now... and from then on she didn't seem as eager to help me with getting surgery. I have United Healthcare (HMO) and called them and told them the situation. They seemed understanding and seemed to be willing to work with me without my PCP's approval. But don't I need a referral from my PCP to see a surgeon? What if my PCP won't refer me now? Am I stuck? I don't really want to change PCPs if I don't have to. Other than this situation, she's been a great doctor... can someone help me?

We greatly appreciate your interest in helping us build our Q&A database. To discourage vandals from posting garbage, however, we require people to register before posting.

You must be logged in to post an answer. Click here to log in.