Question:
I need a surgeon off base that will take Tricare Prime

The wait list just to have a consult on base is too long. I am hoping to find a surgeon off post. Can anybody recommend a surgeon in Louisiana that takes Tricare Prime? And, how easy do you think it will be to get a referal off post?    — Tami H. (posted on January 2, 2003)

January 2, 2003
I'm not in your state, but I did go to the military hospital to get my surgery. It took almost 2 years, but it was worth the wait. I'm not exactly sure how it works, but doesn't someone at the base have to say that you can't be seen there, and you'll need to be referred? I'd call the 800 number and get the specifics before you go about finding a surgeon and all that. Good luck! Sending happy thoughts your way!!
   — Diana L.

January 2, 2003
Tami, although I am not in LA, I do have Tricare Prime. My referral came from my PCP to a diabetic clinic who then referred me to the surgeon. It is taken more time than I would have cared (over six months) but I will have my pre-op work February 3rd. Are you getting the help you need through your PCP?
   — Linda C.

January 2, 2003
Go to see your PCM on base. Ask to have a referral off base to the surgeon of your choice. I had a great letter that I presented to my PCM along with printed materials from my research that I thought were relevant and helped to discuss the reasons I wanted the surgery. I also proved my documentation of diet attempts, preexisting conditions I knew were in my records <minor, but relevant> and any other information I felt would help get the referral. 15 minutes into my appointment my PCM invited me to his office to help him write the insurance referral. It was on 12/12 and I received a letter from tricare dated 12/13 for approval to my surgeon. The key is to involve your PCM. EASY AS 1,2,3...
   — judyguay

January 2, 2003
Go to the FHFS.com website and go to the provider directory (unless you are in New Orleans or Baton Rouge when you will need to go to the Humana site). Search for surgeons, then cross-reference them to the "find a surgeon" page here (or look them up by name on the website). If you find a match, you can ask your PCM to refer you directly to the civilian network
   — JoAnn B.

January 2, 2003
Could you consider coming to Texas? My surgeon, Dr. Kenneth Warnock, in Wichita Falls takes Tricare and does a lot of military surgery. He just recently had a patient with Tricare come from Alaska. In fact, he's had three from Alaska. He is a wonderful surgeon and a terrific human being. I live in Dallas and went to Wichita Falls just so he could do my surgery - his reputation is wonderful and he's been doing bariactric surgery for over 20 years.
   — Patty_Butler

January 3, 2003
Tami, start at the base clinic with yur primary care doctor. He is the one that can refer you to an off base surgeon for a consult. I'm in Abilene Texas, and we only have a base clinic, all wls's are done off base or at Wilford Hall. I chose a local suregon here in Abilene. Best wishes!!
   — PhyllisM