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The TriCare Procedure
For military members interested in WLS in Colorado Springs. I would like to suggest a way to do it. Go to your PCM. Tell your doctor the exact procedure you are interested in. Keep in mind that TriCare will only cover the surgeries that are currently being performed in the area. For example, Dr. Rose (at the AF Academy) will do the Open RNY and the Adjustable Lap Band. If you want the Lap RNY you need to see Dr. Wilcox or Dr. Harkabus (at Fort Carson). I made the mistake of saying I was interested in WLS and left it open for TriCare to weed through. I think it pushed my surgery back several weeks. It is a good idea to tell your PCM which doctor you want to see.
With the doctors on Fort Carson there is a 6 step process before you can be considered for surgery.
- Meet with the surgeon. You must have a BMI of UNDER 50. You may be referred up to Denver if your BMI is over 50. With that, there will be out of pocket costs if you do get referred to Denver. You will have to pay for your Nutrition Class and your Psychological Consult.
- The surgeon will order a psych consult (being an Air Force Dependant going to an Army facility the order may be delayed as the protocol systems aren't the same). I had the worst time finding a professional that would take me for a consult. They just wouldn't return my phone calls. My intent was to not only make a contact but keep that contact to help me with other issues in my life. Luckily, I have been seeing Jackie Grimmet of the Juniper Clinic now for more than 6 weeks. I highly recommend her.
- The surgeon will then order you to go to the LEAN Classes. (I am not sure if Dr. Rose makes you go to the 4 week "Lean" Class but please ask to go to it.) It is a nutrition class that deals with Bariatric Surgery. Some parts, depending on how much research you have done about WLS, may be repetitive but the last 2 classes are VERY informative. Plus, you will make new friends that will be going through the same thing you are.
- You will then attend a surgical orientation. It gives you a different perspective on the surgery itself and what to expect after you wake up from the surgery and the days after. Again, VERY informative.
- You must attend at least one support group. They meet at Evans Hospital (in the cafeteria) every 3rd Wednesday of the month at 6:30 PM. It is a wonderful group and I can't wait to go next month.
- After all that is completed, you can then make an appointment with your surgeon again for a final evaluation. If all of your ducks are in a row, the surgeon will put you on the waiting list or give you a surgery date.
There are a bunch of tests you may have to take. I had a physical while asking for a Bariatric Surgical referral so they ran some blood tests. You may need to have your yearly Pap, if you are woman. They will need current blood work done 30 days before your surgery (if I remember correctly). You will have an ultrasound on your gallbladder.
