Question:
PCP WITH KNOWLEDGE OF WLS

I'm currently in the process of reviewing my insurance options at my job. I just had WLS on Monday, and I am looking for a WLS frienldy doctor in the Northern Virgina area. My current doctor is a joke. I want a doctor who knows what I have been through and will not just guess at what my body is doing. ALso looking for a OB/GYN who has knowlege of WLS. Thanks    — TEDDI T. (posted on September 27, 2002)

September 27, 2002
You are going to have to do alot of education with your PCP regardless. Try and find one that has a good general knowledge of medicine (I know...that is hard to find too!!). Example, I am a nurse, and was very impressed when my PCP actually sat down and talked to me about vitamins and B12, as well as protein ect.....he CARED. AND he knew what he was talking about. HE also does not try to prescribe med's that are inapporpriate (ie: antiinflamatories). Good Luck, the pickin's are slim!!
   — Vicki L.

September 27, 2002
about the OB/GYN...just find one that knows THEIR speciality. Let your PCP and surgeon worry about the WLS.
   — Vicki L.

September 27, 2002
I don't know if you want to come to Maryland or not but Dr. Steven Kurylas in Crofton MD is fantastic--I noticed you have Aetna HMO--they require a year of a medically supervised diet within the last 2 years--I was approved in 2 hours with them. I was ready for them I had a letter from Dr. K stating he supervised me for a year which he did--he is great---
   — Marie R.

September 27, 2002
Hi!!! I'm so happy to say that I can help you. My PCP, Dr. Victoria Hammonds, suggested this surgery to me. She is/was all for it. She is wonderful and she works at Manassas Family Medecine. I went to her to ask for a perscription for Meridia or Xenical and she said that they're not safe, but I should consider gastric bypass. Also in the office is Dr. James Min who has supported me as well, he very aggreably ordered all my tests and even ordered extra tests that he felt were personally beneficial for me. My surgeon is Denis Halmi, he is parters with your surgeon. Also, my insurance at the time of surgery was Aetna HMO. Please feel free to send me an e-mail at [email protected] if you want to talk to me personally, I'd be happy to talk to you on the phone or meet with you. I am 3 1/2 months post-op, doing well, and I've lost 66 lbs.
   — cjabates