Question:
I have Pacificare but have not followed with a PCP in years. Am I doomed?

I have switched to Pacificare insurance in the past year (prior to that had indemnity plan with no referrals needed) so I have not followed with a PCP in many years, only my gynecologist regularly who has not treated me specifically for any obesity related problems. Am I doomed?    — Kimberly P. (posted on August 7, 2001)

August 7, 2001
Hi Kimberly, I have PacifiCare HMO in Colorado, and I have never been treated for obesity. My medical records which consisted of three pages, because I avoid Doctors like plagues LOL, did state my weight, and once a nurse stated on my medical records that I was a pleasant obese person hehe!!, But other than that, no supervised diets. My surgeons office never even submitted my medical records, due to the lack of info about my obesity. I don't have any mojor comorbs either. What I did do, was submit a diet history, a family health history and a letter stating why I wanted this done, and the Surgeon took notes from it and submitted their forms. I know not all PacifiCare "Branches" are the same, but from all the people I've talked to with them, they've been pretty easy to deal with.
   — Carey N.

August 7, 2001
Actually, this might be an opportunity for you. I would do some research here to find out which doctors in your medical group refer patients for wls, and then make an appointment with that doctor. Post a question here and someone will answer. If you know which surgeon's office you will be using, call them and ask which doctor from your medical group refers patients to them. They will tell you. When I asked my surgeon's office about my pcp they said, "oh, she refers patients to us all the time." I knew I was in.
   — Anne G.