Question:
what is the first thing i need to do? where do i get started

   — teresa D. (posted on June 20, 2002)

June 20, 2002
The first thing you need to do is call your insurance company and find out if they will pay for the insurance or cover part of it. What are their requirements, such as what BMI should you have, etc. Second, make an appointment with your primary care provider (Doctor) and talk to him/her about your desire to have this surgery. Ask them who they can refer you to for a surgeon and research the surgeon, make sure that him/her is very knowledgable and skilled in this field. Good Luck!
   — Jena C.

June 20, 2002
Actually, I would suggest doing your research on this site, and selecting surgeon first. Hopefully, you can find one who takes your insurance. Then, if you need a referral from your PCP, tell him/her you've done your research, and you want a referral to this surgeon. Most PCP's don't have a clue who does this surgery, so you may have to teach them. Just remember, you are the boss! If your PCP gives you a hard time, fire him or her & get a new PCP. Doctors are not Gods, they work for you. You are the master of your own body!
   — Leslie F.

June 20, 2002
Teresa, I believe the VERY first thing you should do is research obesity surgery by navigating through this website. Obesityhelp.com was designed to essentially guide you with ease through the entire process. If you have the time and your own computer, it's an interesting journey. If you have insurance, call the insurance company and find out if they pay for WLS (weight loss surgery) for morbid obesity and what are the requirements (other than being medically necessary-which is what most insurance companies basically require). Second, make an appointment with your PCP (primary care provider-your doctor). Explain to him/her that you are interested in having this surgery. Teresa, most insurance companies also require that you have a diet or weight loss history (detailed), but not all of them so be prepared to do some work. Finally, after asking your PCP for a referral to a surgeon that specializes in WLS, be sure to check out the surgeons' credentials. You will want to know, for one, as mentioned on this website-that he/she is knowledgeable, skilled, board-certified and listed with the ASBS (American Society of Bariatric Surgeons). Some surgeons are listed with various other "boards", but just be sure you check them out thoroughly. I think this website also mentioned that it's a good idea in making your final decision on the specific surgeon you choose, to check out the office staff. There is a lot to take into consideration when making this important decision of WLS-just use the tools on this website (for example, "Surgery Types", then take it from there, make friends here and you can't go wrong!! We will be here to help you through the process, just ask. Best wishes on your journey ;) XOXOXO Smooches!!
   — yourdivaness

June 21, 2002
Select a surgeon and make an appointment. Many surgeons are getting really backed up and it can be several months to get a initial appointment. During your wait do as much research as you can, go into that appointment confident that you have done your homework!
   — Linda A.

June 21, 2002
Read, Read, Read. Get as much information as you can, so you will not be shocked about what is going to happen to you. The WLS sight and book helped me get preparred for the Dr. and my worries. Good luck to you!!!!
   — sadierussell