Question:
What is the pre-op psych evaluation for?
What does it involve? What type of questions does it ask? — Peggy H. (posted on June 14, 1999)
June 14, 1999
My psych evaluation was very easy. The psychiatrist I had
to use (because of HMO restrictions) was not completely
educated about WLS, but he did have many obese patients.
He asked me to explain the surgery in my own words. He
my expectations of the surgery. How I thought I would cope
with a new body. Was I prepared for complications, and
perhaps even failure to lose weight. He asked about my
emotional support system. He was somewhat concerned that
I am clinically depressed and require medication to stay
"even". But he felt I was completely aware of all facets
of my decision and did not find any contra-indications to
my having the surgery. I think they really just want to
be sure that you know what you are doing, and are not
expecting some magical transformation. Don't worry about
it! Good luck!
— Lisa B.
June 14, 1999
I too had to have a psych evaluation for Cignahealthcare.
The Dr. was very nice and deals with people with eating disorders, he had
heard of the surgery but let me explain to him that I understand the risks
and the rewards clearly.
He gave me a (if you'll excuse the expression) a clean bill of health. I
can only give you the same advice that my surgeon gave me, just be yourself
and it will be fine. Good luck! If your in NJ and would like the name of
the psychiatrist I saw please just email me, he's a Cigna doctor too.
— Carrie G.
June 14, 1999
Hello,
Just wanted to let you know I just had my Psych eval. Mostly was asked
about eating habits, work, exercise, what I did for enjoyment.
It is to profile you to see if you meet what someone (perhaps the surgeon
and Psychiatrist) have came up with as a person who has been most sucessful
with WLS surgery.
I know they would like people to have a job or if you do not need to work
then a charity or volunteer interest which would keep you busy. I also,
know they are not keen on TV watchers. Also, if you have any other
unresolved issues in life which have not been addressed it is suggested to
get those addressed prior to surgery. But, it is not the Psychiatrist who
keeps you from surgery or gets you into surgery. It is you and the
surgeons final decision.
I send you light and love.
JC
— Jeannette C.
June 14, 1999
When I was told about the psych eval I assumed it was to
make sure you weren't a self-mutilator or some such. When I
finally talked to the psychiatrist he confirmed my assumption.
— patti S.
June 16, 1999
My doctor explained that the evaluation was to weed out people
who enjoy having surgery. (There are people who do you know?)
Mine was a question and multiple choice answer sort of test.
I talked with the psychiatrist and he evaluated me by my answers.
We even discussed the results of his evaluation right then
and there. I found it to be quite interesting.
— Peggy W.
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