Question:
How important is this Psych Consult?

I had consult with surgeon yesterday, set a surgery date, and was told to get Psych Consult and schedule Gall Bladder Ultra Sound. I just contacted the Psychologist that he recommended for the psych consult. She no longer accepts my insurance (BCBS PPO) and I will have to pay the $275 upfront for the consult. There are several other physicians in my area that do accept BCBS, but I have no idea if they have ever done a consult for WLS. Any advice appreciated.    — Marie U. (posted on July 25, 2002)

July 25, 2002
Marie, I would call the doctor and tell him the insurance situation. In my case, I could choose between a couple of doctors to do my psych. eval. Surely he can suggest another, and will make an exception due to the circumstances. As far as the importance of the eval. goes. I was pretty skeptical when it came to the requirement, but then I realized that a decision this big requires a clear view into your mental health. My husband has a family member who had surgery and gained it all back plus! simply because she was not intelligent enough to understand the risks and lifestyle aterations she had to make. That has happened a lot, so the doc wants to know beforehand. I'm sure all will work out for you.
   — Tina B.

July 25, 2002
My doctor said I could use anyone I needed to for the physc exam. They are making sure you do not have unrealistic expectations. The exam is important, as they can stall or stop your surgery if they think you are not ready. Call your doctor. Explain the situation and see if he can tell you another Dr. he works with. If not, I would call the doctors myself and tell them what you need. I am sure they can handle it and use a doctor on your plan. Good Luck.
   — Pam G.

July 25, 2002
I don't know how it is in Georgia, but with my BCBS PPO in Michigan, I just had my Family doctor give a referral to the Psychologist for the evaluation, that way it's just like they are "in network". I didn't have to pay a dime.
   — cklaver