Question:
Should I get my Psychiatric Evaluation Prior to my Consultation

I have my initial consult on Feb 19th. I know my insurance requires a psychiatric evaluation prior to their approval for the surgery. Should I be proactive and get it done prior to my consult?    — Gloria K. (posted on January 29, 2002)

January 29, 2002
Yes, I would. My insurance requires a Psych evaluation too, I recd some responses that said it can take up to three weeks to get the results to your insurance company. between evaluating your responses, and dictation. Good Luck to you. The cost for me (Central Ohio) ranges from $140 to $200.
   — Kristee

January 29, 2002
As the other posters have said, I would definently have one done prior to the consultation. I did that right before my consult because it was also mandatory by my insurance. I looked up my insurance on this site and did what others stated they had to do. I was required to see a nutritionist as well so I did that before my consult too. I was approved in 10 days for open RNY. I also wrote a diet history and all of my comorbities. I am not sure if that was required, but I thought it would be a good idea. Good luck to you on your process.
   — Dawn H.

January 30, 2002
I agree with the previous posters. Just make sure that you check with your surgeon's office before you pick the psychiatrist and/or the nutritionist. My surgeon, for example, had a psychiatrist he usually used who was familiar with WLS and what was needed by my surgeon and the insurance company. [Although I ended up using my own therapist, this information helped my therapist structure a letter that satisfied the requirements.] Also, I would definitely get the nutrition consult done ahead of time. Some nutritionists have pretty long waiting lists.
   — Kathy J.