Question:
I have just been told I am anemic.

Does anyone know if this could prevent me from being approved or even a good candidate for surgery? My PCP does not know I have a consultation for this surgery and I just found out I am severely anemic. I don't plan to tell him for a couple of reasons 1) he thinks being overweight is because of your eating habits 2) I don't need his referral as long as I go to a DR in my plan.    — Katrina M. (posted on August 14, 2001)

August 14, 2001
I think that you BETTER tell them. You could need a blood transfusion after the surgery. This is a pretty serious situation. I know I am there right now..but unlike you I am only borderline. I have donated blood to myself through the red cross (its free) in case I need the trans. But today I am having the endoscopy and colonoscopy to make sure of no internal bleeding. If you want I will let you know how it is. But i don't recomment keeping ANYTHING from your surgeon. I am a big chicken, believe me but you need to go on iron possibly and have some tests. Write me if you want. [email protected]
   — Annette W.