Question:
Do I need be evaluated by a psychologist before I see a surgeon?

I'm very confused on where to start! Do I need to see a Psychologist and a Dietician before I can see a surgeon? Do I need records showing co-morbidies on the first visit? I really don't know where to start!!!    — Tracy S. (posted on June 24, 2001)

June 24, 2001
Hi Tracy, what I did when I decided on wls and a surgeon, was to call the office and ask them to send me their information packet. I would imagine most, if not all, offices would have some sort of information to send to you. It will instruct you about the process leading to the surgery. The process varies among doctors, some will see you first then ask you to see the relevant specialists while others will not see you until you have had insurance approval but the office will assist you with that. I have not seen my surgeon yet because I had to have ins approval first. But I don't think you should go ahead and have a psych eval or nutrition counseling yet. Also you only need to prove co-morbs for ins approval. Contact the office first. Hope this helps. I wish you all the best in your journey.
   — dandjon

June 25, 2001
I saw a Psychologist before I saw my surgeon and it was a waste of my time. Now my surgeon was happy with it, but Blue Choice Option made me see someone of "their choice" and that jerk waited over eight weeks to write up his report. I finally had to call his office every few days to get him off his lazy butt.... then he wanted me to see a dietian. And I already had a couple years before, but that was'nt good enough for BCO ether. So I had to see the dietian that works with my surgeon. It was a nine month ordeal thanks to BCO. If you do see a Psychologist before your surgeon, I hope it works for you. Just because it back fired on me doe'snt mean it will for you. But perhaps, to cover your butt, you can find a psychologist that your particular surgeon uses. And do the same with the dietician. And whoever you get, be "carefull" what you say and don't volunteer any extra info! That goes for both the dietican and the shrink. I learned the hard way on that. And don't be to honest. Alittle goes along way. Anything you say "can and will be" used against you. Carefull.
   — Danmark