need help finding a PCP

I'm new to san diego north county, and i'm having trouble finding a good primary care physician who is friendly to bariatric surgery.  I've looked in the listings here on this site and there is a serious lack of listed doctors in my area (Carlsbad, Encinitas).

Does anyone have any recommendations?

I live in Los Angeles county but I have a few suggestions.

First, think about going to San Diego South.  I believe there are a number of very good doctors in that area.

Second, think about Riverside or San Bernadino counties.  They are the two biggest counties, landwise, in the entire U.S. and I know there are some good doctors available. 

That said, we have a number of forum members on this board from San Diego, Riverside and San Bernadino counties.  Take a look at who their doctors are.

You also need  to be aware that a lot of folks choose doctors who aren't superclose to where they live because that doctor is offering something they find important.  It's called having confidence in the doctor.  I happen to know that my doctor has patients who live 1,500 miles or more away and have never lived in California but selected him because he's really good.

Will you be covered by insurance or are you self-pay?  It may make a difference as to your selection of a doctor.

Good luck with your search.

Lisa

I had to switch primarys due to not being supportive or educated on WLS. Go to one of your local WLS support group meetings and ask  who has a primary that refers to the surgeon you want as your first choice and second choice surgeons. Write them down and ask what group and insurance they have. This is how I found mine!!  Then call the group (dont tell them you are not a member yet) and ask which surgeon they refer to for bariatric surgery. Once they verify ask what the requirements are.... if you need 6 months sup diet, 6 months or a year with the new PCP, etc.
This is what I did after 3 years of bull crap with my previous group.  Switched doctors in August 2007, did the 6 months with the new PCP, got clearance and had surgery April 2008!  Best move I ever made.  I also have a copy of the letter I took to my new primary on my first visit on my blog. Check it out! Good luck. Kim