Question:
how do you get the PCP office to respond?

HELP, I became eligible for the surgery under my insurance on 8/1/03, I had a appointment to see my PCP on the same day, The office turned in my request for consult with the surgeon within a hour of my visit, I was approved within 30 mins. What you ask is the problem?? Well the surgeon office requires that you have the PCP send them a letter of referral and all medical records. I ask them to do this 4 times, Each time they tell me to leave a message on the phone recorder for medical records person, I have faxed them the request and sent a Disclosure form as well, giving them permission to send the info. Today I called again and found out that the surgeon has STILL NOT GOTTEN ANYTHING! I am really getting upset, Everything was going so well and now I cant seem to get the last bit of info I need just to make the first appointment with the surgeon, Any suggestions?    — LS F. (posted on August 11, 2003)

August 11, 2003
I would go to the medical records office. Let them see you in person. Ask to see your PCP, to talk to him about your repeated request. (in a nice way of course). People in all businesses get busy. Often, unintentionally, certain clients get pushed to the side again and again in a busy day. If they see you standing in front of them, they will be more likely to take action. Put a face to your request, make them see you as a person, not as another work day chore. The cliche about the squeaky wheel is so true. And far to often, we as obese people, try really hard to be 'nice'. That gets us walked over. Take the initiative to make them do their job. You are not to be forgotten. And their negligence is effecting your future. Make them do their job. And if they get in trouble with the people that they work for, well that is unfortunate, but they should have been doing their job. Good luck to you.
   — TameraD

August 11, 2003
I had this problem with my PCP also. Her phone nurse is awful. I finally just wrote the letter myself and took it to her to sign. Of course, it was not fancy enough for her so she changed a few words on it, had it typed and had the letter sent within a few days. Keep calling them too. Good luck. My surgery date is scheduled for just 10 days away.
   — sandyh

August 11, 2003
I would physically go to the doctor's office and speak with the office manager and tell them that you need these records immediately and your willing to sign any disclosures now and pay for any copying of the medical records.
   — Patty H.

August 11, 2003
Hi...I agree with Patty - got to the office yourself and request to paperwork and take it to the surgeon personally. If they ask why, then tell them! If you want something done, obviously you have to do it yourself. IMHO, They don't care whether you have this done not, so they don't understand the importance of it to you. My PCP's office was alittle like that with me in the beginning, but now the girl in the office just tells me I'm the most persistant patient they've ever had...haha..she remembers me and now they take care of me..good luck! Denise 316/158
   — lily1968