Question:
I'm getting ready to start the process of getting all my tests, help?

I've gone to my surgeons seminar and was given a packet that told me what tests my PCP needs to request I've got all the blood work done but still have the EKG, Psych Eval, Pulmonary Function and chest X-ray. I've read a lot of info on line but was curious for those of you who have already gone through this what exactly the tests entail and how long they take. Any help in this would be greatly appreciated!    — HAILEY (posted on January 18, 2006)

January 18, 2006
The EKG and Chest Xray take a nominal amount of time. Seconds to do, depends on how busy the office is, is the time for your wait. The Psych eval depending on who you are seeing can take an hour or a few hours, and a couple of appointments. As for the pulmonary function test expect to be there about 45 minutes to an hour. Good luck with your weight loss journey. The EKG they put some sticky patchys on you and hook 12 leads to them and run it on a machine. The Chest Xray is a frontal and side xray while you stand in front of a board. The Psych eval can range from a conversation to a written test depending on the Psychiatrist used. The pulmonary function test is a breathing test that you breath into a few times and they take readings. Nothing overly invasive. If you have any further questions email me. Denise
   — dlryanoates

January 20, 2006
I went to a pulmonologist for the pulmonary function, which was good, since I also have sleep apnea and he did a test for it. I went to a cardiologist for the EKG, and he did it right in his office. You need to go to a psychologist for the psych eval. I think it is better to go to speciallists for those than your PCP, because if there is a problem, the specialist can write you a ltter that will support your need for surgery. You can get a chest xray at your local hospital. None of them takes very long.
   — Novashannon