Question:
I am having my surgery in New York and I live in Oklahoma.

I was wondering how everyone that has had there surgery a long way from home handled their follow-up visits. There isn't really a local Bariatric Doctor . I am self-pay so insurance didn't cover the only semi-locasl "EXPENSIVE" doctor. I am not really comfortable going to see him for follow-up care. Do I need to schedule an appointment with my pcp before I go for when I get back? Any information anyone could provide would be greatly appreciated. My surgery is scheduled for Jan 10th at MonteFiore Medical center in New York. Thanks Again Patty    — Patty O. (posted on January 3, 2000)

January 3, 2000
Dear Patty, You must be seeing Dr. Goodman!! I had Dr Goodman, and he's wonderful!!! I went to NY from Illinois. I have been back once for post op checkup, and will go back twice more. I have recently talked to another one of his patients from Kentucky who is doing foolow-ups with his pcp in Kentucky...so I think you could work something out with Dr. G. I Don't mind going back to NY, as I visit friends when I'm there.Good Luck!!! You'll love him!
   — Karla R.

January 3, 2000
Hi Patty, My surgeon gave me a lamenated card to carry around with me in my wallet. On the front of the card there is a picture detailing the surgery and on the back of the card there is his phone # and office information. If I should be out of state or even at another hospital they will be able to call him or at least have a basic idea of what the surgery is about. When I had an incision infection my PCP was the one who gave me antibiotics and followed up with me. My suggestion (unless you don't mind traveling) is make your PCP knowledgeable about the surgery and maybe even ask your surgeon for a similar card. You can even make one yourself. Good luck!!!!
   — Jodie R.

January 4, 2000
I talked to my pcp one day when I was in for a visit. She is in full support of this surgery and even wrote a letter for me for my insurance. But when I asked her if she would still see me after I had surgery, she said that she would if it wasn't anything pertaining to the surgery. She doesnt' know enough about the procedure to treat me, so I will have to go back to my surgeon, which is 4 hours away, if I have any problems concerning the surgery.
   — Tina H.