Question:
Does anyone know a pcp who knows about and agrees with wls in So.Ca?

I think that I need to get a referral to a surgeon from my pcp but, I don't know which one to pick. Some Dr. don't agree with wls. Please help if you know of any for United Healthcare in So. Ca.    — Princess J. (posted on October 5, 2001)

October 5, 2001
I had a similar situation - looking for a doctor who would go along with my idea of WLS. I had already gotten insurance approval and had a surgery date. But, I needed someone to "order" the blood tests, etc. I spent hours/days on the phone calling all over So. CA. Mostly I got receptionists who "decided" on-their-own whether the doctor would take me on as a patient. The only answer I got was "NO!" Finally, by chance, my mother talked to her doctor's #1 nurse and after some hesitation, she (the nurse) talked the doctor into considering it. He eventually told me that he would take me on as a patient as long as I would continue to use him as my doctor after the surgery. (I also think that it helped that he really likes my Mom.) Anyway, I agreed and the first two visits (pre-op) were dreadful. He told me about dieting and exercise and I simply listened without complaint. I also left my surgeon's URL for my new physician. There is a whole section on the surgeon's website for physicians. By the time I saw him again, he had educated himself on WLS. He was very interested in my success post-op (I am six months post-op and down 110) --- so much so that he has had his nurse call me to see if I would telephone another of his patients and tell her the SCOOP about WLS. So, I have actually educated my doctor and he has decided that WLS is not such a bad thing. I think that it is easier if you have any kind of "in" with a doctor. Going down the list provided by the insurance company is frustrating and fruitless. Also, doctors are hesitant to take you on if you are prescribing your own treatment. It make them feel like you are undermining them. "Hello, my name is X and I want a recommendation to have gastric bypass surgery. Please write me a letter and set up the necessary tests." We put them in a difficult position. Maybe they even know a different bariatric surgeon or procedure or something. Anyway, that's my take on it. I know it doesn't give you a name - but it may assist you in your quest.
   — [Anonymous]

October 6, 2001
My PCP was at first reluctant to have me proceed with the surgery. He had two other patients, one who did not fair well and was concerned for me. I gave him all my info I'd collected in my research, including access to this site. He called me the next day and said, come in and we'll get this rolling for you. He is VERY down to earth and a terrific doctor (I can and have told him anything!) He is in Bellflower, Dr. Brian Minkus. He has since referred my research base info to others and is very enthusiastic (sp). Good Luck. Joanna The Luckiest Angel
   — JOANNA S.

October 6, 2001
You should call UHC and see if you need a referral. I have UHC, Select Plus, POS and didn't need a referral. Dr. Anthone at USC did my surgery. A good way to find a PCP is to call the surgeon you want and ask their office which PCP's they work with. Are you in Orange County or L.A.? Also, you can go to the UHC website to find a PCP then just call and ask them if they refer people for WLS if they need it. Good luck to you! It's an exciting experience you're starting!
   — [Deactivated Member]