Looking for new PCP- any suggestions?

Hello!
I am quite disgusted with my current PCP- when I went to her to get the referral to my surgeon required by my insurance, I had to explain the surgery I wanted to her (both times- changed my mind from RNY to DS) as she was completely unfamiliar with any of them.  Even having read my medical history and knowing my history of all "traditional" methods being unsucessful, she still tried to convince me not to do it, and tried to scare me with possible risks.  I calmly explained to her that I was well aware of the risks, probably more so than she was, given her unfamiliarity with the procedure, and that I knew what I was doing and had made up my mind.  She grudgingly gave me the referral.  I absolutely do not want to deal with her for any of my aftercare.  Does anyone here have any suggestions for a PCP who is familiar with WLS patients?  I currently live and work in the West and Southwest suburbs of the Twin Cities metro.  I have Health Partners insurance, but please chime in if you do not and have someone you like- they may still be a provider for me. Thanks in advance for any replies!
-Sarah

I personally love Dr Nolting-Brown at Fairview Eden Center in Eden Prairie.  She has been very good before and after my surgery. 

Thanks, Teri!  I'll check to see if she's on my provider list!

Since you are going to have the DS you might want to go with a PCP who has a DSer as a patient.  My PCP is in Edina at Allina Medical Clinic in Edina.  Her name is Rosalie Siy.  She is not taking new patients, but you can ask due to special situation and she may take you on.  There are other MN DSers that check the DS board so I would post this on the DS board too and see if they can help.  You can PM me if you would like more information from me.

Jennifer

Thanks, Jennifer, what a great idea! I will re-post this on the DS board, and I will check her out as well- I guess I was thinking that having a PCP with DS knowlede would be too much to hope for!  I'll look her up on my provider network, and if I can't find her or have more questions, I will definitely PM you.  Thanks again!

No problem.  There are a lot of docs that can help with the RNY but there are not many that will help you with your DS stuff.  You have to be very ready to educate them about your procedure and they have to be willing to learn everything.  Plus they have to be willing to let you tell them what you need ordered for your labs etc.  They have to really be willing to cooperate with you.  This has been quite a learning process, but I have been lucky that my PCP has worked with me every step of the way.

Jennifer

I've already educated my Chiropractor's entire office!  I've been going to her for 12 years, so she's like family to me!  She also has had digestive issues requiring her to have had a portion of her intestines removed, so she is very familiar with dumping.  She's thrilled that I've found a procedure that substantially reduces the risk of having to deal with that!  I've told them about the two great websites (duodenalswitch.com and dsfacts.com), and her younger associate is excited to check them out- he has a friend with a failed RNY and I was suggsesting he have them look into the procedure to see if they'd be interested in a revision.  So, I'm pre-op and I'm already paying it forward, how cool is that!

That is great.  You will find that once surgery happens more and more people will be asking you how you are losing the weight.  It is a perfect time to educate people then too.  I love letting people know there are more options available. 

Jennifer

DR.Blummenfield at west clinic very nice lady and willing to work with you on any issues  listens to you and makes time for you  can't get all your needs met in one visit she'll see you again to get all your needs taken care of . Ive been very happy with her She's new to healthpartners. so getting in to see her is pretty easy.good luck I don't know what she know about DS but you can e-mail HP Dr's and ask them question if your on HP my chart.

Thanks, Nancee!  Sorry it took me so long to reply- I was unable to get online until now!