Question:
What to do when PCP says no to discussing WLS, saying WLS kills people?

I live near Allentown PA. I desperately want WLS, I have a Medicaid HMO Amerihealth Mercy, My doctor wont even discuss WLS, I am almost150lb over weight, sleep apnea, back, leg, feet pain, shortness of breath, high cholesterol. Does anyone know of a Surgeon who accepts my insurance/medicaid and/or know of a PCP who would consider referring me ??? If you can give me any kind of info I'll gladly take it!!!! Thanks :)    — britt997 (posted on April 19, 2002)

April 18, 2002
Your doc is uniformed and sharing a personal bias with you Refer him to the NIH site... (National Institutes of Health) They have stated that WLS is the only long term solution for weight loss in the morbidly obese. Find a new PCP and follow your heart. If you are willing to take the risk, you should be with a doctor who will discuss it with you and support you. Regards and good luck.
   — Ann B.

April 18, 2002
You get a new doctor.
   — Mary G.

April 18, 2002
Go into the "Find Peers" link above, then click on PA. The people are listed alphabetically by town, so look for someone in your area and ask them about their PCP. You could also ask your surgeon if they know WLS friendly PCP's locally. Good luck!
   — GGinMA

April 18, 2002
Your PCP missed something.... Obesity kills FAR more than this surgery does... Change Doctors! For your own good! Good luck in your journey!
   — Elizabeth D.

April 19, 2002
Find a new PCP! The previous poster was right--Obesity kills more than the surgery does! I'm from Allentown too, although I live in FL now. Good Luck!
   — Kristin R.

April 19, 2002
Get a new Doc quicker than you can say double cheese burger! My doctor was very negative about it, not encouraging at all. I found a new doc and though they don't exactly endorse wls, they don't discourage my decision either. They have also been very helpful to me as far as information and other help. You need a positive doc as they will be a part of your after care also. good luck.
   — Dana L.

April 19, 2002
Get a new doctor and tell your old one why you're leaving. Also, if your current doctor is part of a group practice or clinic, write them a letter and tell them why you're leaving too.
   — Angie M.