Question:
Can I change doctors?

I recently went to a doctor for my evaluation and they are sending in the request to my insurance company (John Deere Select). I've decided I want to see another doctor instead who is also in my insurance plan. This would be a new doctor and a different procedure. Anyone done this? Any problems with the insurance company? What should I do?    — Robby E. (posted on January 10, 2002)

January 10, 2002
Hi Robby ~ I was approved by my insurance company and only two weeks away from surgery when I changed docs. I also changed from Lap to Open and will now be having surgery two weeks from today. I did not have any problems at all. I know different insurance plans have diffeent procedures, but if your first doctor was going to take care of getting authorization, your second one can do it too. Just in case, bring your letter of approval (if you get it by then) to your new doc when you go for consult. That way if there is any confusion on the insurance company's part, your new doc's office will have everything they need to get it straightened out. You didn't mention what you meant by "different procedure", but I imagine it is possible that some insurnace companies may approve one type of WLS and not another. I'd say that it can't hurt to call your insurance company yourself to investigate a little. Don't let this concern hold you back from finding the surgeon that you are most comfortable with. Good luck to you!
   — PaulaM