Question:
Where do I start? Do I first go to a Primary Care Physician and have him refer me?

I am scheduled to see an ENT on 4/21/00 regarding my severe sleep apnea. Do I ask him about a Bariatric Surgeon?    — Teresa H. (posted on April 12, 2000)

April 12, 2000
It would not hurt to see if they can recommend someone in your area. First step, reserch the different procedures, then find a doctor, call the doctor and have him send you information on his program. If your ins is an HMO you will need a referral, if it's a PPO I wouldn't bother at this point and time. Make sure the doctor you shose has a great follow up program, offers support groups and insists on seeing you for follow ups. If you need additional help let me know, if you are in MI I can help you even better.
   — Julie H.

April 12, 2000
Hi, My PCP referred me to a surgeon who will peform the gastric bipass. Check with your insurance company to see who can manke the referral for you. Good luck!
   — Cindy S.

April 12, 2000
If you're in an HMO, it's best to start by picking a surgeon you like and feel comfortable with. Pick your own, either by talking to people here or asking the office to send you program materials. Then you can ask your PCP for a referrral to that surgeon. If the surgeon is not in the same "medical group" as your chosen surgeon, you can change PCPs to one that's in the same medical group as your chosen surgeon (you can always switch back later). Ask the surgeon's office for the names of some good PCPs in their same medical group. That's how I got my surgery from one of the top bariatric surgeons in the country.
   — Kim H.