Question:
Seeking A BC HMO Medical group in L.A. that is pro WLS

I am switching to Blue Cross of California HMO as they pay more than my current PPO plan. I live in Los Angeles (near UCLA!) Can anyone tell me what medical group I should pick that is educated about WLS and will readily refer me to a good surgeon (preferably one who goes to UCLA or Cedars Sinai.)? Please help. Thanks!    — Stephanie B. (posted on December 14, 2002)

December 15, 2002
Stephanie, I have BC-CaliforniaCare. My 1st med group "disbanded" on 1/01/02 after I was approved to go to UCLA for a consultation. I then went with Professional Care--Pro Care. I had to go through a big song & dance for several months due to errors & misunderstandings on the medical group's end, however my surgery was approved last summer. I was sent to another surgeon in Whittier where I live. This is the surgeon I wanted originally. I did meet with Dr Sawiki (sp?) at UCLA back in Feb '02. UCLA does have a long waiting list. However, Pro-Care should go pretty smooth. Stay away from Bright Medical--they're a nasty medical group!!! Good luck!! Also, my profile has more info on my expericence.
   — Lee A.

December 15, 2002
ABSOLUTELY!!!! Go over to Brotman Medical Center in Culver City and see Dr. Sheilah Clayton at the Spectrim Clinic. Ask for Eileen at the Clinic and she'll set you up with all the paperwork and the psych eval, the whole enchilada. Dr. Clayton is the best in the biz!!! She came up through the ranks the hard way - she put people back together at King Drew Med Center putting people's belly's back together from gun shot wounds from gang fights. She has a heart as good as gold, and is a kind soul. I have rhumatoid arthritis, and she takes her time with you and does NOT rush you through like a herd of cattle like *some* of those groups do is San Diego (we all know who we're talking about). She answers all your questions and she is there for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and she keeps tabs on you, and you're never alone - never. Her office is in Pasadena but she performs the surgeries in Culver City at Brotman. I would walk on hot coals for this lady...and I mean lady. She has earned my respect and she'll always have it. Please mention my name when you see her and say hello for me. I leave you in the best hands when you go to her for your WLS. The best to you and see you on the other side!!!
   — suitfugue