Question:
Need help fast..................

I went to my surgeons office yesterday and they indicated they needed a psych evaluation/clearance for me to have the surgery. My insurance has already been approved fortunately. This clearance is just for the surgeon's office. The office gave me a few psychologists names but basically said I could go to anyone I wanted to, to get the clearance. The psychologists they referred me to couldn't see me for over a month. I made an appt. for tomorrow a.m. with a psychologist and need to know other than that I am cleared for surgery, does she need to say anything else. Thanks in advance for any responses.    — Joanie J. (posted on May 3, 2002)

May 3, 2002
I just had a psychologist come speak to our support group a couple months ago. He explained that what the surgeons and insurances are really looking for is if the person is stable enough to handle the surgery and the post op restrictions and life style changes. He said in over 5 years of doing these, he has only recommended that one young girl think some more about what she was doing and then come back and talk to him again. He said she really had NO idea what she was getting into and was treating it more like just another diet.
   — livnliter

May 3, 2002
If your surgeon said you could see anyone, then they don't have anything specific for you to have to do. Some insurance companies require a bunch of tests, but if it is your surgeon requesting it, they just want to make sure you know what you're getting into, that you can deal with the post-op diet restrictions, that you are being realistic in your expectations, etc.
   — garw

May 3, 2002
If you click on my profile and scroll down to my 6 month anniversary, I have a copy of the letter from the psychologist. As the previous poster said, they want you to be sane, know what you're getting yourself into and have reasonable expectations. See the letter for more information.
   — Jeannet

May 4, 2002
Thanks for everyone who helped with answers. Saw the psychologist this morning and it was a "piece of cake".
   — Joanie J.