Question:
Does anyone know if the psychological evaluation with Dr. Keshishian is mandatory?
I am a psychologist and have performed most of these tests on my patients, besides, I think profile testing in this case is an invasion of privacy. Blah, Blah, I digress. Any feedback regarding Dr. K's requirements. — [Anonymous] (posted on October 12, 2001)
October 12, 2001
I always assumed it was mandatory everywhere, for good reasons. To make
certain we understand what were planning and we will be able to deal with
our post op life changes. I would think that medical professionals would
understand this the most. But then again even marriage counselors get
divorced..... As pre op tests were my enemy, and the delays they created
were the worst. But being a post op I look at it differently. The tests
were for my safety, and the delays prevent buyers remorse. Waiting gives
pre ops a chance to change their mind. This weeds out those who arent
dedicated to living as a WLS person for the rest of their lives. The test
thy had me take was mostly 100 ways to ask, do I have a drug, alcohol, or
wife beater problem. I guess they learn more but really I could care less.
— bob-haller
October 12, 2001
A psych consult is required. It is not about revealing your deep, dark
secrets or even necessarily why you're overweight. It's about attempting to
make sure that psychologically you understand the surgery, you understand
the commitment you are making to life long vitamins and supps, plus life
long follow up care (although if your labs are fine, it's just bloodwork
once a year). It is also to determine whether or not you have realistic
expections of the surgery, etc. I did not have to do an MMPI, but I was
asked to describe the surgery, other surgeries out there, my expections, my
understanding of the surgery and possible complications, etc. I was
dreading my psych consult like everyone, but the guy I went to was great
and if I have any issues post-op that I feel he could address, I would feel
perfectly comfortable doing so.
— Anita N.
October 12, 2001
Dr. K is my surgeon and it is my understanding that he requires the psych.
eval. because the NIH includes it in their guidelines for WLS along with
BMI of >40 or 35 to 40 with co-morbs. My insurance also requested it so
I had to have it done anyway.
— Billie J. P.
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