Question:
How to obtain a referral from my pcp?

Hi; I'm just starting my journey, I am scheduled to attend an information session on March 3rd and my initial consultation is scheduled for March 12th, but I do not have an referral. My PCP is very strict and believes that I should try to lose the weight on my own. I have been overweight to the majority of my adult life. I am starting to show signs of co-morbidity symptoms. My question is how should I approach my PCP about a referral to visit the surgeons regarding the option of wls? Any information that you can provided would be greatly appreciated.    — Jennifer M. (posted on January 29, 2004)

January 29, 2004
HI, MY PCP WAS HESITANT ALSO SO I CALLED MY SURG. OFFICE AND ASKED THEM FOR A FEW NAMES OF PCP'S WHO WERE ALL FOR THIS SURGERY. I DIDN'T WANT TO WASTE MY TIME OR THEIRS. GOOD LUCK! ANNETTE
   — 2PUGS

January 29, 2004
First off, does your insurance or surgeon of choice even require a referral? Many people assume they need a referral when they don't. my insurance is UHC. I can go to any doctor without a referral. i called up the surgeon of my choice that took my insurance and simply made an appt. I had vaguely mentioned to my pcpc that I would like to have surgery and he ho-hummed around and I didn't mention it to him anymore and he knew nothing of it till after the fact and now he is proud as punch of me.
   — Delores S.

January 29, 2004
I agree with Annette. I asked the Physician's Assistant at my PCP's office 1-1/2 yrs. ago about having the surgery & she said, "Absolutely not!" Then I made another appointment with them last June & told myself if they said NO again, I was going to change doctors. Well I about fell off the table when they said YES! I am now 2-1/2 weeks out & doing fine. If you need a referral & your Dr. won't give you one, change Dr's. There are tons of Dr's out there that are for this surgery & more coming around every day. Good luck!
   — squeejlueej

January 30, 2004
Go to this part of the website: http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/m-referral.phtml It gives great info on how to talk to your PCP. Good luck!
   — jbekke