Question:
Consultation advice needed

I just got a new pcp because my np wouldn't give me a refferal. is there anything thing I should take with me to my appointment that will make her more likely to understand and willing to help me ? should i print some info off of this site and what ? I don't want top overload her with papers to read about the surgery. But she won't know me or my weight loss history. any advice ?    — amy H. (posted on October 21, 2003)

October 21, 2003
The new PCP will request all your records from your old doctor...however, when you first meet her tell her exactly why you are there. Be firm. Tell her that you've thought this all through and have decided that all other attempts at weightloss have failed you in the past, this is your final resort. Tell her that you would like her to do the nessessary tests that she needs to submit to a surgeon. Ask her to recommend a surgeon. If she has no preference, chances are she will not be weight loss friendly. Be clear on why you need this surgery and clear on what you have tried and the results. Be detailed. Make it clear this is what you have decided and that you will accept no other attempt to loose weight. When I met my PCP, my very first appointment with him EVER...I was so scared because I didn't know much on his stance on WLS. I called for the appointment and told the nurse that I was coming to discuss WLS and I asked if he has recommended people for this in the past. She said yes. I met him, he was wonderful once he looked over my records and listened to my concerns. Don't be scared to call other PCP while you wait for your appointment and ask around. Be prepared for anything, good or bad!
   — Renee B.

October 21, 2003
Be prepared, some PCP's require you to be a patient for 90 days to 6 mos before they will refer you for elective surgery. RNY is elective surgery.
   — M B.

October 21, 2003
Amy, it was on my first visit to my current PCP that I asked for a referral for WLS surgery. I had planned to ask my previous doc, whom I had been seeing for years, but my HMO pulled out of his medical group before my visit. The new doc was very understanding of my struggles when I explained that I had been overweight my whole life, and have been on every diet and exercise program there is, with no long term success. I told him that I had decided years ago never to go on another diet again because every time I dieted I only ended up weighing more in the end, and I just couldn't keep doing that: that WLS was the last resort for me. I think it helped that I had had my entire medical record transferred to his office before my visit, so he had the documentation of my medical history. I am the first patient of this doc to have WLS, so you just never know who is supportive and who is not. My advice is to be honest and sincere when you explain how you arrived at this decision. Best wishes.
   — Vespa R.

October 21, 2003
When I was scheduling my appt with my PCP to ask for a referral I learned she was out of the country (military docs) anyhow I sheduled with another and was worried she wouldnt know anything about me. I typed up a letter explaining what I knew about the surgery, risks and all. I included my family medical history and why I felt I had no other option but surgery. The new doc was great and gave me a referral the same day. She also asked me to come back and let her know about my surgeon so she could refer a few people that she knew to him. Good luck to you :)
   — Vegas_ T.