I just got the info that my surgeon here in Hawaii is not going to accept anymore Tricare patients. Tricare is very difficult to deal with and I think many doctors are just plain sick of em. Sucks for us though!

2 years ago when I called they told me it was 4 year waiting list. but I think they have gotten rid of the waiting list. if they can see you within 30 days of your referral from your PCM they will write you a letter to go with a civilian doctor well that's what they told me in August.

Camille, First of all Welcome!! I am one year out from WLS today and I feel great. I am down 119 pounds, 8 pounds below my Dr.'s goal and only 2 pounds away from my own personal goal. I started at 271 and I am now at 152 as of today. I am one of the lucky ones in that I haven't been sick or had complications. Well I did find out a few months ago that I have sleep apnea but I could have had it prior to surgery. I also have developed a hernia because I had my surgery open instead of Lap. That is because Tri-West wasn't approving them for a 3 month period when I was approved. I really didn't care which way it was done, although I really wanted Lap, as long as I had this surgery. You can check out my profile and read all about my journey. I will tell you that you need to research this as much as possible and know as much as you can. I do believe that WLS isn't for everyone and you need to make sure this is for you. It has been a hard but good year. Sometimes were really really hard. It is a life change that is for sure. With that said I will say that I am so grateful that I had this surgery. I feel as if I have my life back. Things as so much better for me and my family now and I wouldn't change a thing. Okay enough for now, feel free to email with any questions that I can help you with. Take care and good luck!! Becky P. P.S. Keep us posted on how you are doing!!

Hi Heather, Thanks for the kind words. It is not something I am taking lightly. I have a young son who needs his mother and needs her around and healthy. I am thankful for OH. I have met a number of people who are more than willing to answer my numerous questions. If you don't mind me asking, what kind of complications did you have immediately post op? Also, I have heard about a protein you can add to your food/beverages that is tasteless. Could you tell me what that is? Thanks. Hope to keep in touch! God Bless, Camille

Hello my fellow dedicated military spouses, I wanted to say hello. I am new to OH.com and to the idea of WLS. I have thought about it in the pass, but the last few months I have really shown a serious interest in it. I hope to learn a lot from your experiences pre and post op. God bless you guys for sharing your journeys and having the strength to make a change and all the while being someone else's support system and firm foundation. Hope to hear from everyone and establish some real friendships. God bless you all, Camille