Question:
Denied for Psychological Reasons - HELP!!!

This is for a friend of mine and I was hoping someone could help!! ""The psychologist I saw who was very against surgery wrote that this surgery wasn't for me. My denial letter states that I failed the psychological screening process. What should I do? Should I see another psychologist and appeal? Thanks""    — Pamela P. (posted on July 25, 2002)

July 25, 2002
Well the psycologist who approves ALL of my surgeons patients says there are only the following reasons for not getting approved... Current alcohol abuser, WLS just doesnt work for them, they have to be aware enough of the risks and rewards of surgery and what changes post op will be necessary, and certain eatring disorders are looked at closely. Espically eat and purge thats tough on the new tummy. Any chance you friend has one of these troubles? In any case I would have them contact the surgeon to see whats up. Its possible this psych doc doesnt believe in surgery for one reason or another. Best to ALWAYS USE THE SURGEONS SUGGESYTED DOCS To PREVENT such problems...
   — bob-haller

July 25, 2002
I would suggest getting more information on why the psychologist wrote the letter of denial. I went to a class last night on behavior modification in preparation for my own surgery. After listening to the questions being asked I was frightened for several in the room and these people had been approved for surgery because they were admitting doing things that all the literature, support groups and doctors I've read or heard anything about say is a danger sign. Does your friend REALLY know what they're getting themselves into? Has your friend shown severe signs of an eating disorder? Has your friend showed severe depression or suicidal tendencies? If she sincerely believes the psychological opinion is in error, it might be worth seeing another psychologist for a second opinion. But if a credible psychologist wrote a letter of denial, there is a basis of that opinion. It would be worth finding out the source of the concern.
   — Cathy S.

July 25, 2002
Most psychiatrists are looking to see if you have healthy supports and alternative behaviors in mind for dealing with stress. If you eat out of depression (or joy) how will you handle that after surgery? I also would call the WLS surgeon and fine out who can evaluate you who is not opposed to surgical solutions. Good luck. Tom
   — Thomas M.

July 25, 2002
I was denied by my first psych appointment. I sent him a letter and requested all copies of his notes and MMPI test results. The guy was nuts with the things he came up with. I went to another for a second opinion. They asked the same questions, however; this time could find no reason that I should not have the surgery. Surgery Date August 28, 2002. Don't give up. Get a copy of your records and go to a secon opinion. Only answer what is asked and don't over volunteer. We all have problems with food or we wouldn't need this surgery. I didn't tell the second consult about the first to receive an impartial session. Good Luck!
   — Linda K.

July 25, 2002
I was denied by my first psych appointment. I sent him a letter and requested all copies of his notes and MMPI test results. The guy was nuts with the things he came up with. I went to another for a second opinion. They asked the same questions, however; this time could find no reason that I should not have the surgery. Surgery Date August 28, 2002. Don't give up. Get a copy of your records and go to a secon opinion. Only answer what is asked and don't over volunteer. We all have problems with food or we wouldn't need this surgery. I didn't tell the second consult about the first to receive an impartial session. Good Luck!
   — Linda K.