Question:
Who should one contact first to get the ball rolling for WLS, surgeon or provider?

   — Linda V. (posted on June 25, 2001)

June 25, 2001
Well, I would do both! First off, it depends on insurance, but if you require a referral to see a specialist, your PCP will be the 'initial' person you see to obtain clearance to see the surgeon. HOwever, I'd also research surgeons in your area, etc. and make an appointment ASAP because some surgeons are quite booked up. If you waited until your PCP gave you a referral you may have over a month's wait (once again, it depends on the surgeon and your location). Don't just go with one surgeon --- research, ask about people's experiences, etc. Find out about the hospital the surgeon is affiliated with - what's the care like there? What about aftercare? Does the surgeon have a nutritionist that he/she works closely with? So, even though your PCP will probably be your first 'formal step' towards getting WLS, you can do a lot of research to be better prepared about 1. what type of surgery you think would be best for you (the three main types are: VGB, RNY, BPD/DS and also the adjustable lapband now, I think); 2. What you are looking for in a surgeon and have possibilities lined up. YOu also should ensure that your surgeon(s) of choice are covered by your policy. :) This is important because your PCP may not know much about WLS and may not be totally sure about who to refer you to; 3. You can also do some online research and come prepared with some statistics, info for your PCP visit. Some physicians are kind of in the stone age about WLS and morbid obesity. Knowing your facts and showing resolve may help if you have a PCP who really doesn't know much and/or is hesitant to make a referral to a surgeon. I wish you the best! I had a laparoscopic BPD/DS on January 25, 2001 and am feeling great. If you should have any questions about the DS procedure, please feel free to write me and I can direct you to some sites, yahoogroups and share my personal experience with you. All the best ([email protected])
   — Teresa N.

June 25, 2001
It really depends on your insurance type. Most HMO's require that you have a referral from your primary care pyhsician. I have a PPO and went straight through to a surgeon. I would suggest contacting your insurance provider to find out their required route. Good luck!
   — Rachel M.

June 25, 2001
I did research to see what surgeons accepted my insurance. I then made an appointment to see my PCP. She told me when I decided what surgeon I wanted to use to let her know and she would give me a referral.
   — blank first name B.

June 25, 2001
Well I guess it would depend on how close you and your doctor are too =) I made the appointment with my surgeon and then told my PCP that I was going to do it, I just need his referral. It worked out both ways, I went to my PCP prepaired with dates and facts, and he didn't have to do the work =)
   — Elizabeth D.