Question:
Primary doctor giving Me LOTS of trouble about referring for surgery

I live in Jacksonville, (Duval County) FL & I have the hospital & Dr. in Gainesville & all the paperwork they require, the letters from several doctors, the tests and results and now am just waiting for my Primary MD to give me the go ahead. She said No, then yes, then, "well ... ok" & now is at "Oh, I don't know, I don't think I want you to; surgery is so dangerous"! Ugh! I am SO ANGRY! Help!!!    — Christie W. (posted on July 31, 2005)

July 31, 2005
I have seen the same question posted before. My only suggestion, and I have seen it before also. Is to get another PCP. Rita
   — Incredibleshrinkinglady

July 31, 2005
I have been blessed with a PCP that willingly admits he doesn't know everything there is to know about everything LOL. He told me up front that he wasn't familiar with the aftercare of gastric bypass patients. He told me that if I was willing to "teach" him what I needed for him to provide the best care for me, he would give me his support. I actually wrote the letter for precertification that was sent to insurance. I took it to him, he signed it, and it was approved. I'm not sure I would want a doctor for my aftercare that didn't support the idea of surgery. This is a lifesaving procedure, just like removing a cancerous tumor or repairing a defective heart valve. It's not the "easy way out" that a lot of people, including doctors, think it is. Good luck.
   — Chris S.

August 1, 2005
Hi Christie, I agree with the others. Find another PCP that will be willing to refer you to the bariatric surgeon. Maybe the bariatric surgeon could refer you to someone who would be more sympathetic to your needs.
   — monymony

August 1, 2005
Ask your PCP what is more dangerous, being morbidly obese or WLS? If she has read anything, she knows that you have a better chance of a long and normal life by loosing weight! It just happens that not all of us can eat what we want and still where a sz 8. If She doesn't change her mind quickly, I would let her know that she is uninformed and find myself another Doctor that is living in the 21st century!
   — jk_harris

August 2, 2005
Your primary MD isn't the one that can tell you "yes" or "no" to having this surgery. Your MD can give his/her opinion, but it is YOUR decision!
   — tedeebear