Question:
How anyone been approved for WLS through Florida Healthease Medicaid in 2003?

I have been told by many that most Florida surgeons are no longer accepting Medicaid. Anyone out there know of any Florida Surgeons still accepting Medicaid?    — Stacy M. (posted on September 4, 2003)

September 4, 2003
Hi, I am also on medicaid and live in florida. None of the doctors in my state will accept medicaid for wls, however I am told that there are a few doctors in Gainsville that do. One is Dr. Thoburn, also one in Crestview named Dr. Herf. From what Ive read and been told Dr. Thoburn is really good. Im still pre-op and checking on it too, however my pcp wants me to wait because of sleep apnea and my inability to wear the cpap machine. Hope this helps. Good luck. Mary
   — justaboutkrazy

September 7, 2003
I HAD OPEN RNY 03/26/03 IN ST PETERSBURG BY DR ERNEST RHENKE(FABULOUS SURGEON). I HAVE MEDICAID/HEALTHEASE...ALTHOUGH I HAD TO PAY $720 OUT OF MY POCKET FOR MY PYSCH EVALUATION BECAUSE HEALTHEASE DOESN'T PAY FOR THE PHYSCHOLOGIST THAT YOU NEED TO GO TO, IT WAS WELL WORTH IT!!! I BEGGED, BORROWED & WOULD HAVE STOLEN (JUST KIDDING)TIL I GOT THE MONEY TO PAY HIM.SO UNLESS HEALTHEASE OR DR.RHENKE HAS CHANGED THEIR RULES SINCE MARCH 2003,YOU CAN HAVE SURGERY WITH HIM.
   — BLSLIM77