Question:
I am four months post-op and surgeon no longer in network

and I was told by his staff that he has no plans on getting back in network since he gets paid more out of network then in. I can understand hi reasoning. My question is he is 2.5 hours away so i am not going to see him anymore and he said that that was fine and that I could go ahead and see my pcp. Since I am no longer going to see him what do I need to make sure that my pcp does besides the blood work at 6 months. Is there anything else that I need to do besides take my vitamins and eat my protein first and exercise and drink my water. He has never mentioned protein drinks so not sure if i need them or not.    — shelly B. (posted on January 1, 2003)

January 1, 2003
Hi! One thing I would suggest is getting a copy of your medical records, office notes, lab results, and op report to give to your pcp.<p><p>Another thing I think would be good is...(I'm still pre-op--just my thought)...If it were me, I'd find another gastro Dr in your area, tell them the situation, and have them take over for you. Only because incase of problems or an emergency. HOPEFULLY THAT DOESNT HAPPEN!! But just in case.<p><p>Only because family practice doctors may not know how to handle certain situations. Best of luck to you! Mary
   — Merry I.

January 1, 2003
Make and appointment with your PCP. First talk with them to see if they are willing to take over care from your surgeon because of this situation. Believe it or not, some wont. You need to talk to your surgeon and ask him these questions. Find out what tests to do and when. From my experience, most general doctors do not know the answers to these questions. You, for the rest of your life will have to know more than the doctor. You will have to be in control of your health and not the doc. After your PCP agrees to take on this responsibility, have your records sent to him, and suggest they talk. I started having complications at 6 months post op. I was still able to see my surgeon, but he was 4 hours away. My PCP spent lots of time talking with him and coordinating my care that way. It is a learning process for a PCP who has never dealt with such a patient. But it is very important that you have somone that can and will help you. You may also talk with your insurance company. Many offer continuity of care for a while. This is where they will pay for your visits with your surgeon for a brief time. At least that way you can go see him to ask your questions.
   — RebeccaP

January 1, 2003
Shelley-I would call your PCP and explain the situation to him/her and give them the surgeon's name/number and ask them to contact that office and let them find out the information they need. Good luck!
   — Bambi C.