Question:
How do I get a Refferal from my PCP?

I have been to my doctor and she has agreed with me on the surgery there might be a problem, I do not have high blood pressure,nor high cholesteral. My BMI is well over the charts and I do suffer from reflux disease and back ache and knee swelling. She is somewhat hesitant on the approval but willing to give it a shot for me any suggestions?    — Cari G. (posted on June 14, 2001)

June 14, 2001
im basically in the same boat as you i see the surgeon next week and the paperwork will be submitted then i don't have really any major co-morbidities, i do have severe back and joint pain,shortness of breathe,family history of diabetes,heart diesase, etc... if you insurance approves and states as long as its medically necessary and the surgeon agreees to write u a letter stating that and you submitting your own personal letter...i would think we will both be approved. good luck to u ....
   — [Anonymous]

June 15, 2001
Cari, get the referral from your PCP no matter what you think your chances are of being approved. With a BMI of more than 40 you sometimes don't need co-morbs. Which you do accoring to what I read. Reflux, knee and back pain, family history, etc.. As long as your PCP is willing to give you the referral and then back you on it, go for it. Good luck to you...
   — Betty M.

June 15, 2001
My PCP was hesitant also. He finally agreed to refer me for consultation appointment with a surgeon. One step at a time works well with doctors sometimes. When I was deemed a good candidate for the surgery he referred that as well. Now that I have done so well he acts as though it was HIS idea...ha ha! Don't give up...try it one step at a time!!
   — firefly1955