Question:
Has anyone had exprience with the VA (vets. admin.) and wls?how long did it take?

   — Octavia M. (posted on July 17, 2003)

July 17, 2003
I would love to hear what you find on this topic. My brother would only be able to have the surgery thru VA.
   — doodlebug

July 17, 2003
Hi, I work at a VA in Indiana. I ran across a ptients chart one time and the Dr. had written in his progress note that the vet was requesting WLS. The Dr wrote that he would look into it and see where he could have it done in this area. I can't remember the name or I would go back and see what has progressed. Sorry I don't have a real answer, but I would say there is at least hope, mention it to your PCP and see what they have to say.
   — Chelsea R.

July 17, 2003
I had my WLS done at the Veteran's Adminstration West Los Angeles Medical Center. The primary consult at the Sepulveda VA. It was a piece of cake. Made an appointment with my PCP in August and requested it. He looked at my BMI of 51 + sleep apnea etc. Had Surgery Consult in October and Surgery on February 20th, 2003. The only complaint I have about the VA is that surgical notes in my file is nonexistance only states "Performed RYN Gastric Bypass." When I was in the hospital I asked about what they did and was told that I had a 1oz Fobi pouch (no transection - reason: easier to reverse if need be) and 107cm bypass. Later I researched the Fobi procedure and it suppose to be transected. I then requested a copy of my medical record since Feb 2003 and nothing in there about what they did to me. So make sure you clear up all that info before you leave the hospital. You can read my profile for my day by day accounts of my surgery. <p>Take Care, Be Well, Be Happy!
   — John T.

July 17, 2003
Well, I have ChampVA insurance and my husband is a disabled veteran. The VA administration is pretty good about helping with WLS. I have not had ANY insurance problems. I am thinking that the VA hospitals would be about the same. The main requirement was the BMI being 40 or over. Go to the VA Administration Website and do some Research. Good luck to you in your WLS journey! My surgery is 19 days away!
   — Eleanore Davis

July 18, 2003
I'm not sure how it works where you are but for me all my medical and medications come from the Spokane Wa. VA Medical center. They are not big enough to to do the surgery themselves but refered me to a local sourgen to do the surgery. They have been very suportive. In 1994 my big brother (big lol) had WLS at the Seattle VA and they covered everything. I hope my note helped. And you can also call the VA Hospital where you attend and ask them they will have the most helpful info for you....
   — D P.