Question:
How to get doctor approval for lap band surgery

My doctor is the type that doesn't believe in "quick" fixes, She says I can lose the weight with dedication. I don't feel it is at all possible anymore without having surgery. I am 5'7 285lbs. I feel surgery is my only option at this point and I am wondering if others have had this sort of problem convincing their doctor to allow them to have surgery, or if I may have better luck consulting a new doctor.    — Emily51501 (posted on June 30, 2006)


June 30, 2006
I had the same problem so I found a doctor that was more sympathetic, and believe there are more and more out here you just have to look. You'll have better luck with a doctor who understands your situation.
   — trutxn60

June 30, 2006
First off...your dr doesn't need to ALLOW you to do anything. This is your decision, no one elses. If you want surgery then you better begin now being your own advocate. You tell your dr what you're doing and if they won't support it, you'll find one that will. Its that simple. Your dr doesnt know everything. Don't let them intimidate you. You are the only person that knows what you need to do in this situation. And make sure you understand all the surgeries available and make sure you're chosen the right one for you. Its not one size fits all. Depending on your eating habits one may work better than another.
   — amillman

June 30, 2006
this is a very simple situation, change doctors plain and simple
   — Steve Cohen

June 30, 2006
Some insurances do not need referrals. Mine did not. I set up the visit to the WLS Dr. myself. I am with Blue Cross Blue Shield of NM. Check with your insurance to see if you need a referral.
   — southernnmdreamer

June 30, 2006
I have just gone thru the same thing with my PCP. I explained to her that I am not asking her to like the surgery, but I am asking her to be professional and give me what I ask for and need. I asked her to come up with 5 legitimate medical reasons why I shuld not have the surgery and I would come up with 5 legitimate medical reasons why I should. I won. She has been slow with submitting my paperwork, i guess to stall me out or see if I am serious. At any rate I reminded her that I am paying her for a service. If she could not do what I needed then someone else will. I think that she had her personal reasons for not wanting to comply, but professional, proven opinion belong in the workplace, not personal ones. You have to take control over your health. You are your first line of defense anyways. With all that said and done, I am tenatively scheduled to have my open RNY July 12th.
   — Tennille M.

June 30, 2006
I'd go with your last statement, start looking for a new doctor. You are your own advocate for your health -- they don't live or walk in your shoes. Go to your insurance company website and see what their take is on the surgery. Our insurance companies websites hold a lot of information regarding the surgery. Some insurance companies have started to certify hospitals that have a bariatric clinic -- so check there. I'm an inch shorter and we weight about the same. My PCP has had been on an appetite suppressant since December and I beginning to think that I have become immuned to the drug.
   — the7thdean

June 30, 2006
Hello, I just got approved from the surgeon on June 8th. My PCP was not involved with the process at all. I'm not sure if you were talking about the PCP or the surgeon. Of course, my insurance does not require referrals. It sounds as if your does. Did you come out and tell your PCP thqt you would like the referral to explore the option? If the PCP says no, tell them that you will need to change to a PCP that not only uses his/her knowledge but who also takes into account your wants and needs. Good Luck! Leigh M
   — LeighMcCall

June 30, 2006
JUST CHANGE YOUR DOCTOR.THAT'S ALL BECAUSE IF YOU WENT THE SURGERY.THEN TELL YOUR DOCTOR YOU ARE GOING TO LOOK FOR A NEW DOCTOR WHO DO YOUR SUGERY. FROM AIMEE C.
   — BABYPRINCESS

July 1, 2006
I thought the same thing, until i went to my priimary doctor for the medical clearance. Come to find out, his sister in law had the procedure done and she's doing great. SO, i was paranoid for nothing. I would suggest going to him and see if he'll give you the clearance. HE MIGHT SURPRISE YOU. If not my surgeons office said that a cardiologist supersedes the primary physician, so if your primary says no, just go to a cardiologist. Hope this helps.
   — mel-in-NJ

July 1, 2006
My rhuemotologist was against the surgery as well. My WLS Dr. would not do the surgery until the Rhuemotologist signed off saying that my FM & Raynauds would cause not adverse reactions to the surgery. When I met with my Rhuemotolgist, she would not sign off on it because she didnt beleive in the surgery. I was straight forward with her and told her that she can not hinder me from the suregery because she doesnt believe in it. SHe was simply asked if there would be any problems with the FM & Raynauds and if there isnt then she has no reason not to sign off on the WLS for me. AND I falt out told her that if she didnt Iwould find a Rhuemotologist that would. She then signed off. Good Luck! Just be stern with your Dr. or change Dr.'s!
   — AnneRie

July 1, 2006
I sort of agree with your doctor. If you CAN lose it through diet and exercise, you should! It is not, however, a" quick fix" nor is it easy. You have to exercise and watch what you eat to be successful! IIf you can't do it without surgery, go to another doctor.
   — Novashannon




Click Here to Return
×