Question:
PCP question!!!

Hi!! I don't go to my PCP much, maybe three times this year. Once for my gallbladder, once after gallbladder removed and once for my bad acid reflex. I'm scared that when I ask my PCP about WLS he gonna be like WHAT where did this come from since normally I avoid all comments about my weight when im at the doctors. And he won't want me to do this. My BMI is 47.7 with gerd and back pain. Can someone please tell me how they talked to there PCP about this.    — Nikki S. (posted on May 31, 2009)

May 31, 2009
My BMI was 39 and I generally only see my PCP once a year; yet she was the one that suggested I check in to weight loss options including WLS. She is very glad I'm going to have WLS and tells me I'm doing the responsible thing. So chances are good that your PCP will be glad you brought it up. Best success!
   — Janell C.

May 31, 2009
i rarely saw my PCP i was never sick, and with my insurance i did not need a referral so i did not need him to do anything for my surgery except to giv eme medical clearance which he did. so i would say it depends on your insurance co. good luck
   — gogirl1960

May 31, 2009
My BMI was about 43 and I also do not see my PCP very often. I barely got the question out of my mouth when she jumped on it and said 'yes' she would recommend it. Doctors are the most aware of anyone of the dangers of obesity, so I don't think it would be hard to get a referral. Good Luck!
   — scrapnquilter1960

May 31, 2009
It sounds like many PCP's would like to suggest WLS but are afraid to "offend" someone that isn't open to it.
   — Libby R.

May 31, 2009
There is truly NO REASON that you should be fearful of approaching your PCP about this. Or anything else having to do with your health, for that matter. So many people let doctors and other health care providers intimidate them. Trust me....they are just people...like you and I. Never be afraid to speak up and ask questions or to say, "Hey, slow down! I don't understand." And don't forget....these people are paid by YOU. Therefore, they work for YOU. Don't let their briskness and sometimes over inflated egos intimidate you. If you can't be comfortable with your PCP, it's time to either (a) change the way you look at your relationship with them, or (b) find a new PCP whom you do feel comfortable with. I used to feel the same way as you. But as I have had so many healthcare issues and have also worked in a doctors office...my attitudes have changed. You pay them...YOU are their boss. Now gather your courage and ask any and all questions you like! It is YOUR body...and you have a right to take care of it however YOU see fit! Good luck and God bless!
   — PaulaJ

May 31, 2009
Mine was all for it. When I first asked about it, I thought that he was a bit hesitant. Then, he told me I was only the second person to ask him about it.The first person was several years prior to me. The doctor thought it was a great idea since my BMI is 58 with health issues such as sleep apnea,arthritis, and several other problems. I'm at the beginning of the problems. He said to do it now before the problems get worse. He's asking anything and everything to help me get approved(along with the surgeon) for surgery. I hope this helps.
   — Kathleen W.

June 1, 2009
I didn't think my PCP would be for WLS either. In fact, I didn't mention it until after I had gone to the WLS seminar and gone through most of the steps. When I finally mentioned it, she was completely supportive and willing to do whatever it took to help me attain my goal. She said her main goal is to see me healthy.
   — Char-Ree C.

June 1, 2009
My PCP is the one who recommended I have the surgery when I went in and broke down after seeing my lab results...She was the one who told me she could make all my comorbidities disappear! So if your PCP is against it...I suggest you do some research on the differnt surgeries and do it anyway, if you decide you are willing to take some risks to become healthier ,thinner and happier like so many millions who have had WLS! Or find a NEW PCP...Mine was great and did all the paperwork to get me started...I was 315 lbs and health was in a downward spiral...
   — .Anita R.

July 5, 2009
I know how you feel. I go to my rheumatologist every three months and am miserable. Now I find that my insurance needs a six month physician supervised diet and I have to go to my pcp. I hope she supports me on this.
   — lrgsgt-o9

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