Question:
I have an appt on Friday 1/16, any helpful hints dealing with Tricare?

I want to make sure I go in with the information I need to get a referral to the surgeon.    — LDavidson (posted on January 11, 2004)

January 11, 2004
Hey there! Couple of things to remember, if you meet Tricare rules, which it certainly sounds like you do, they will cover the surgery. Tricare has rules regarding wait times for care, and if it is going to take two years at Madigan, they can certainly refer you to a physician out in town. Use this site to check out docs in the area that take Tricare. Go in to your primary care armed with information. (the good the bad and the dangers) Your provider works with and for you, and if they don't, move on! Good luck on your journey. You can check out my profile in regards to Tricare. Good luck!
   — dimpkd

January 11, 2004
remember that your pcp is there to treat you and that they don't know all the in's and out's to tricare insurance. i would go to the tricare website and print out the section on obesity treatment. that way your pcp can see if you qualify for surgery. also have them document ANY and ALL medical problems even rashs and sores, female problems, back ache, breathing problems,sleep problems ect. you might need reconstructive surgery later on so this will start a history for you if you need it. to print out the page from the tricare website was one of the most important things i think to have as ammo. if you don't get all your things in order in the begining it can make it VERY tough to try and back track and add things later. i have seen someone with a bmi of 46 get denied because she didn't give all her medical history to her pcp. even if you think it is minor...still have them write it down.
   — franbvan

January 12, 2004
Check out my profile! I have a link at the bottom regarding WLS and Tricare. It is not a Tricare site, but it does have their requirements. Good Luck! If you have any more questions feel free to email me. I'm on the Alaska board under Carol Sly
   — Carol S.

January 12, 2004
When I went to my new PCP I brought a list of all problems that Ihad that were weight related, from achy knee and hip joints, urinary problems, shortness of breath etc. along with a list of all medicines that I was taking. Luckly she is pro WLS and did testing for other problems. Sent me for sleep apnea testing because I never felt rested (I'm now on cpap) Tested for h-pylori, had me checked for acid reflex & put me on meds for it. If you get everything lined up and ready Tricare is fantastic in processing requests quickly.
   — MarjN

January 12, 2004
Oh honey, don't sweat it. I also have Tricare prime. I worried like crazy till I actually got my unexpected approval. I had a consultation with the surgeon on 12/15/2002 by 12/23/2003 I was approved. Tricare is great they really work with you. My surgery date is March 2. Tricare only requires what the surgeon requires. The dont plead for the patient to be on two 6 month medically supervised diets. You need to call your surgeon's office and ask them what they require for the consult. I prepared by having my PCM refer my to a psych for the eval, I typed up my previous diet history for the surgeon, I also asked my PCM to write a letter of medical necessity. I wish you luck. I was so worried about not getting approved. But after I found out I was approved the nurse told me Tricare ususally do approve and rarely ever denies. Just make sure the surgeon has everything he requires. Sometimes you have to call am make things happen. Check out my profile for info.
   — [Deactivated Member]