Question:
Can anyone suggest a WLS friendly and knowledgable PCP in Jacksonville, Florida?

Hi, I'm going to be having the DS in the summer, and I need to find a good PCP. The people I've been seeing for years are just too difficult to deal with. I can't even get them to give me a real physical. Post-op I know I'll need a good PCP, so any suggestions would be much appreciated!    — [Deactivated Member] (posted on February 26, 2002)

February 26, 2002
Hi Crystal. I have a very good PCP who is knowledgeable about weight loss surgery, but he is in Ft. Lauderdale. I'm sure that you can find someone in your area, but if it is a last resort e-mail me and I will give you his name. Good Luck!!
   — Tara J.

February 26, 2002
Hi Crystal. I have a great PCP in Jacksonville that I'd be happy to recommend. His knowledge of weight loss surgery is limited at the moment but he's learning on a daily basis thanks to me and a couple of other patients! :) When I went to him to get a referral to a weight loss surgeon, he didn't blow me off -- he listened to what I had researched, checked my stats to see that I qualified and wrote the referral. Since surgery, I see him for my blood work and any other problems that aren't surgery related. You may want to give him a try. His name is Dr. David M. Johnson. He's at the Baptist/St. Vincent's Family Practice at 900 Beach Blvd. (on the corner of 9th and Beach). Phone number is 249-0335. I know according to your profile you're going for the duodonal switch. I can't say for certain that he's had a patient who's had that done (I don't think any of the "local" surgeons do that procedure.) but it can't hurt to give him a call and check him out. Best of luck!
   — Pam S.

February 26, 2002
Hello Crystal! I have a WONDERFUL PCP that is both supportive and sensitive to those who are in need of surgery. His name is Dr. Michael Waters and he is also a part of Baptist Primary care but he is located at 13001 Atlantic Blvd in between Hodges and Girvin. His telephone number is (904) 221-0264. I have been a patient of his since June 2000 and he has always treated me like a person and not made me feel inferior because of my weight. He has attempted to help me with different diets and prescriptions which has helped me in my quest for surgery. I'm not sure if he has extensive knowledge about the surgeries themselves, but when I talked to him about my considering WLS, he referred me to a surgeon with no hesitation! Anytime I need info to assist me in getting an approval (keeping my fingers crossed) either he or his nurse Shelley call me back that same day and make sure that I have everything I need. I cannot say enough positive things about Dr. Waters..I feel very lucky to have him as my doctor!
   — Rachelle P

February 27, 2002
My PCP is Dr. Mark Stich. His office is located in the Lane Avenue Health Center. He is VERY WLS friendly, especially towards the younger patients who want to have the surgery.
   — Heather M.

March 3, 2002
Hi Crystal. If you don't mind the drive, I have a dr. in Starke at Shands hospital who will do a complete work-up for you. He is understanding of obesity and it's many problems. I have so been pleased with the medical care I get there that I drive from Green Cove Springs, which is about 45 min. Email me for the name of dr. if interested.
   — Jean B.