Question:
Iw the prerequisite for being hired at Kaiser Santa Teresa "Clueless!!"

I have found a lot of valuable information and support at this site and having decided to have the operation set out to go to me doctor loaded with info, and tenacity. My goal is to have the surgery sooner than later. After asking for advice regarding Kaiser/Norther's criteria to meet and process to follow I am finding a lot of inconsistancy. Most of those trying to help, including the staff at Pacific Bariatric where I have chosen as the site for my operation, try to be helpful, but no specifics are given only advice to talk to my doctor, and Kaiser Patient advocacy, or administration. I have done all three and have gotten no further than when I started. The doctor is supportive, but uneducated as to Kaisers protocal regarding the approval process for the operation. Does anyone know of a doctor at Kaiser Santa Teresa that is knowledgeable and supportive that they can recommend? The Patient Advocates office has never even heard of the operation much less their own bariatric surgery department, and I have talked to six people in that department so far. Anyone with name and number of someone in authority and educated in this subject at Kaiser Santa Teresa that could provide I would appreciate. The only information I have been able to gather has come from this site (my favorite) and a few others. On each site the experiences of patients having dealt with Kaiser/northern is aritrary and varied, which points out their (Kaiser's) serious problems with educationg their staff, supporting their patients and being inconsistant all along the way. Once again, you are all a great group of people and I appreciate all the information I have been able to gather here. Have my first appointment tomorrow....wish me luck!! Terbear    — Terilyne R. (posted on August 24, 2000)

August 24, 2000
I have Kaiser at Santa theresa also!!!! I was referred by my doctor on 8/14 and she said the board meets 3 or 4 times a year! Please e-mail me! I have other information thast I can contribute to you.
   — leslie F.

December 4, 2003
I have Kaiser Santa Theresa also, and I am going to SD also to have my surgery, I have Dr. Joshi. From what I understand it is not the doctor that matters it is how in need and if you meet the criteria, I was approved fast with them but all of the inbetween stuff paperwork etc is killing me. Hang on and stand tough!
   — Tisha H.