Question:
I have moved from doctor to doctor due to various setbacks

and denials from insurance. I started out with one surgeon, dropped out of the program before the decision was made by my insurance. Then I went to another doctor whose office filed for the wrong procedure and it was denied. I decided they weren't going to work with me, so I switched to a new sugeon. Thus far he is the only surgeon I have actually seen for a consult and I was very impressed with him. However, he doesn't do the lap RNY, which is what I really want. So, while I am preparing my appeal, I have decided to see another surgeon. Is this wrong? I feel like I have a right to do what I wish, but somehow I feel as if I am betraying this last surgeon. Any thoughts?    — [Anonymous] (posted on July 27, 2001)

July 27, 2001
I think you should find a surgeon you like and stick w/ him. You sort of have to qualify for LAP not everyone will be able to have it. Laprcoscopy surgeons are by far the best if you can have a LAP done.
   — [Anonymous]

July 27, 2001
Speaking as someone with experience in both health insurance and hospital finance. you really should find a surgeon you trust and go through the process. Jumping around from doc to doc is confusing the issue for everyone. Not everyone can have a lap procedure. If If you really like the latest sugeon and want a lap procedre, why don't you explain that to him and ask for a referral to a surgeon who does laps. You aren't betraying him, he's a professional and can certainly understand why you are asking for a referral. it's done all the time. You say you are preparing your appeal...yet you are planning to go to yet another surgeon. At the rate you are going, the medical reviewers will be totally confused and exasperated and any further paper work from you will be consigned put on the bottom of the pile.
   — [Anonymous]

July 27, 2001
I was as convinced as you that lap was the way to go. And, in fact, when I would call to check out a surgeon I asked about the insurance oonnection, if they did RNY and if they did it lap. However, I'm going for surgery Monday and my surgein does it open. Not only by talking to him was I convinecd this is the better, safer way, but, Wednesday I went for pro-op tests and the head anesthesiolgist at the hospital (with whom I had to meet and who is also an internist) told me he had the procedure with the surgeon I'm using (8 months ago) and that he thought it was ridiculous to try to do this surgery the lap way. I've done a complete turn around. My suggestion is - if you are happy ioth the surgeon - and s/he has come recommended trust him/her and go with the way s/he does it. Whatever you decide, I wish you the best of luck and success.
   — Nancy Z.

July 27, 2001
I also thought I wanted a lap...and attended an orientation with a surgeon who did laps. But, to make sure I was researching this fully, I also attended an Orientation of a surgeon (highly recommended) who only does opens. Needless to say, I was very impressed by the second surgeon. He said he will do a lap if you twist his arm, but he really prefers to be able to see what he is doing and to get right in there close with his instruments and his hands. There are fewer complications with the open. I had no complications at all and am very happy with my surgery. I have a scar, but I figure my bikini days are over, anyway.
   — Anne G.

July 27, 2001
I appreciate everyone's input. To be clear, I do not plan on having the new surgeon, (should I decide to use him), file a claim until AFTER my denial is overturned. Then I will simply have him submit the appropriate paperwork to change the name of the doctor and the hospital being used with my insurance. I do qualify for a lap procedure with this new surgeon. I am certain I will make up my mind after my consultation, but I won't make up my mind for certain until I get the denial overturned.
   — [Anonymous]