beagoodgirl

You got it....it's nice to have someone to compare notes with :party: Hope you are having a great weekend....

I am not sure - I don't think my PCP submitted a referral to the surgery department as I haven't received anything about orientation....she agreed to the referral and said that she is doing my labs, dietician appointment and psyc referral (all appointments have been made through Kaiser Hayward). I hope I don't have to repeat these appointments, though I can't see why they'd pay twice for them....I wish I'd get an orientation appointment - it would make me feel like it was official.

did your PCP input a referral to the surgery dept. yet? It seems that every facility has a different method of referral - it's hard to tell the time frame and next step. I guess if we just do all we can when we can it will help to move the process along.

Is your Orientation class the same as the Weight Loss Surgery Overview class? How did you sign up or get signed up for it?

I am glad to hear someone else is obsessed with the process....it's all I can think of too. I am wondering if the orientation is the same as the Weight Loss Surgery Overview class that I am signed up for next week? The process is so maddening sometimes as it seems there is no consistent procedures even thought there is supposed to be. I found a link to the Fremont procedures guidelines and it seems that everyone on this thread has a different PCP interpretation of how its done. Have you gone through the healthy lifestyles program or have they said to lose 10%? I am hoping that all of these things I am doing will count when it gets to the surgery department. I am so excited for you - and am glad we've got someone to talk to during this process..

that is just great news..... Question....did your PCP make the nutrition / psychiatric evaluation appointments and then you got the packet? I have told my PCP I want to do it...she agreed and has set up all the lab work (which is done) and now the nutritionist and then the psychiatrist appts....(scheduled already). Is this how you proceeded? Thanks and again, congrats - it is a huge deal isn't it!!!!!

How long did it take from the referral from your PCP to surgery? It is so nice to here success stories....I am so excited and anxious and just hope all goes well.

Hi there, My orientation is for the healthy living class...not for bariatrics yet...I am trying to get ahead of the game - as most people who attend the orientation and begin the healthy ways class and the seminar on WLS seem to have better luck than those who dont. I guess it is showing initiative and commitment. I will let you know the timing as I go. My PCP appointment is on the 9th and I am just going to tell her I want the surgery and have her do the referral right there in the office on the 9th. It is supposed to be standard procedure if you meet the BMI criteria. I am hoping it goes smooth.....

It's nice to have a friend to go through the hoops with. I have a great best friend who is totally supportive as you are to your friend. She motivates me and I am sure going to need it as the process becomes more daunting... I wish your friend well and congrats on your success.....

Check this link out....it is the Kaiser - Fremont criteria sheet for referrals through the entire process. They cannot just randomly decide who and why to deny. If you meet the criteria (ie: BMI 40+) - you get the referral and the process begins. Take a look.....Physician Management of Bariatric Patients The Kaiser Fremont Bariatric Program I have decided to do the gastric bypass and not the band... and I hope all goes well through the process. My first doctor's visit is the 9th and I've signed up for the orientation and the lifestyles class. My "official" weigh in will be on the 9th and I can start losing the 10%.... I am sure you will be fine - lets keep in touch since we are so close - it is nice to have someone to share the ups and downs with.

Hi there, My name is Brenda and I am just starting the process of trying to get approval for surgery through Kaiser. My friend was denied because of a BMI below 40 but when it was over 40 a few months later - she reapplied and received approval. I am wondering who your PCP is if you don't mind me asking and also which kaiser you were referred by? Good luck with everything - we might just be beginning our journey together.