Question:
Weight for Life requirements?

My doctor is affiliated with WFL and I've contacted him through them (WFL) throughout this process. My surgery is scheduled (5/14/01) as are my pre-op tests through WFL. My question is that I was recently talking to 2 Dr. Yates patients (my doc) that are having surgeries in the next couple weeks. Neither went through WFL and neither is having to have the psych eval (which my insurance may/may not cover) or the personality test that WFL requires ($150.00 that my insurance WON'T cover). I'm on a pretty tight budget and I simply can't afford these if I don't have to. Why would Dr. Yate's policies not be the same regardless of through WFL or not? If they aren't DOCTOR policies should I have to comply? Just wondered what the benefit of WFL is (as I said my insurance approved on the first attempt so I haven't needed them for that). They've been nice but not worth the extra money!    — Donda B. (posted on March 5, 2001)

March 4, 2001
I don't know about your doctors or insurance requirements. I am going to go WAY out on a limb here and say more doctors should do psycological testing . So many people are unprepaired and unrealistic about what to expect. Rny's with 2oz pouches are disappointed because thay can't eat candy and stuff a quart of food down their throats any more. please don't flame me, it's been done from this site before and at least I post my name. This is of course just my opinion and it may not be the right one but it is how I feel. These tests may be a good thing . I always figured the more help I got to adjust to the changes my body went through the better my chances of sucess. I hope this helps you.
   — Rose A.

March 4, 2001
Just wanted to clarify that I'm not against the support I believe is necessary to make this work. I asked if I could go see a counselor of my choice (I know a wonderful Christian one that IS covered by my insurance) - the answer was "no", it MUST be theirs. I also am attending a support group for WLS run by a psychologist pre-op (and plan on continuing post-op as well). I am for ANYTHING that will help, just not sure that what they want my money for is truly helpful.
   — Donda B.

March 4, 2001
I agree with you in that I don't feel you need a psychological evaluation intially. The fact of the matter if you are having a hard time adjusting to your new life I would think the money would be better spent on after care rather than before care. I looked into Weight for Life and decided to go with someone else for a few of the reasons you mentioned. If you are in Illinois, look into the American Obesity Clinic at Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove, no psych. tests unless there is a specific problem the Doc feels you need help with. They may also be covered by your insurance, it's worth looking into anyway.
   — christine L.

March 5, 2001
Sorry I don't have anything to contribute to the poster of this message. My answer is directed to Rose Collins - go girlfried! YOU are trying to help, most of the flamers seem to be petty, mean-spirited individuals with control issues. An opinion specific to WLS questions posted in good faith, in an attempt to help another member should be commended.
   — Lynn E.