Kaiser Permanente is Southern California

[MaceoMack 0]

After doing a lot of research and reading all I can on the subject, I've come to the conclusion that Bariactric surgery would be right for me.

Throughput the past 30 years plus, I've tried a lot of OTC weight loss products, and I have been in Weight Watchers maybe five times. I have had varying degrees of success, but nothing permanent. Back in 2007, I lost nearly 100 pounds, half through sheer determination and half through Weight Watchers, but sadly within a year, I regained a little more than half of the weight. My highest weight was 357 pounds.

My primary Kaiser physician agreed that Bariactric surgery would be a good option for me, and due to my other medical concerns (Type 2 Diabetes, Congestive Heart Failure, High Blood Pressure, and sleep Apnea) classified the procedure as being "medically necessary". Because of that classification, the Bariactric procedure is covered through my Medicare and my Kaiser Plan. In total, my out-of-pocket expense for the entire procedure would be a single co-payment of fifty (50.00) dollars.

I attended an information orientation at the Panorama City Kaiser Medical Offices on May 6, 2010.

I attended a one-on-one appointment with the lead Bariactric Surgeon, who also happens to be in charge of the Bariactric program on June 8, 2010. After reviewing my medical records and a question and answer session with me to determine if I would be a good candidate for the surgery, he approved me to continue in the program. Through TV advertisements and billboards, I originally was interested in having the Lap Band procedure, but after reviewing my medical history, the doctor felt that the Vertical Sleeve procedure would be better for me.

One of the requirements is that all candidates must complete a 12 week "Options Program". The program meets for 90 minutes once a week for the twelve weeks. The program involves information about the procedure, weekly weigh-ins, a three phase diet to physically prepare the body and the mind for the surgery, nutritional guidance, and weight management. Candidates are urged to loose about 10% of their starting weight prior to the procedure. In my case, the doctor suggested that I loose about 20 to 25 pounds. This weight loss has to to due with reducing the amount of fat around the liver, which will make the surgeons work a little easier. During the final phase of the three phase diet, food consumption will be down to the amount of food that can be consumed post-surgery. I assume this is condition the body not to go into shock when the amount of food consumed post-surgery is drastically reduced.

After the 12 week "Options" course, a final medical clearance (if all goes as planned) is granted by the surgeon, and the actual procedure can be scheduled. Those successfully completing the program have up to one year to make a final decision on whether or not they choose to continue with the surgery.

My first of 12 weekly meetings is scheduled for July 6. 2010, with program completion on September. 21, 2010.

I am so looking forward to the program.

This seems like a long time and a lot to go through for the procedure, but it's well worth the time. By programs end, I will be able to make an informed decision on whether or not to continue with the surgery, but for now, there is little doubt in my minds. The Vertical Sleeve will give me a valuable tool for changing my lifestyle, improving my health, and making me a "happy camper". This is an opportunity for me to live a better life, and I am committed to doing the work to insure my success.

:lol0:

[vkgirl 0]

Hey there Mr. Mason!

Another KP So. Cal patient here. Although, it seems I'm the only Orange County patient. You'll see that there are some more Kaiser patients here, both from northern and southern California. It looks like just So. Cal has to do the Options class. I'm actually quite happy to go through the classes myself, although I don't start until August 23rd - oh poop! I think it will help me get my head in the right place so that when surgery time comes, I'll hopefully be more able to cope with many of the changes. Just reading everyone's posts here about post-op life has already made me start to look at what I'm doing and why I'm doing it.

This is a great place to come and learn and vent and Celebrate. Glad you made it!

[MaceoMack 0]

Hi VKGIRL

The entire procedure of VSG both excites and terrifies me. I am 99.9% sure I want to go through with the surgery, but there is that bit of apprehension and fear.

Finding this forum has been like a gift from above. Being able to read about others in the same situation and how they have managed it has given me both inspiration and focus.

I think the the KP Options program will both mentally and physically prepare for the procedure and will prepare me to succeed.

VSG will give me a tool to help change my life. It's a lifelong commitment, and a second chance to become a healthier person.

I am looking forward to the experience and I thank those here who have allowed me to know about what is ahead of me.

:blushing:

[Was a humpty dumpty 35]

Hi neighbor!

I am so glad you posted this, it answered many of my questions. I live in the AV and also have Kaiser. My referal was sent in by GP last Friday. Please keep us posted with your journey.

[mb20mom 9]

I had my surgery thru Kaiser when Options classes used to be 6 mos long, so you guys are lucky that it's now only 3 mos. But you might end up just postponing that 3 mos when you have to wait for your surgery date. Since everyone goes thru faster now, they get really backed up. In fact I think I read in another post that where I had my surgery (Harbor City) they're not taking any new patients for awhile.

The Options classes are very important. I've read numerous posts from people on this forum about how un-prepared they were after having the surgery, with no attempt at preparing for how to eat or even trying to lose weight. I felt very prepared, and as a result, knew a lot of what to expect of my new tummy.

Mr. Mason, I hope you do what's right for you, but I would highly recommend the surgery. I have no regrets and I don't miss a thing about my previous eating habits. In fact when I see restaurant commercials, the meals look so big and over sized that it's painful to imagine eating that much. I feel so lucky to have a built-in portion size regulator now! It really is almost effortless, and it's so great to know that the weight is NOT coming back on this time. Good luck to you and enjoy Options.

[PamelaAM 16]

Hi there! I will be having my surgery at Kaiser Harbor City, hopefully in September, with Dr. Zane. I was in the first 12 week class when they made the transition from the longer classes. But there is still alot of waiting time involved. I have learned SO much from this site. . .more than I ever learned in the classes!

mb20mom - looks like you are doing great after surgery with Dr. Zane!

[MaceoMack 0]

Let me provide an update on my journey ...

This evening (7-20-2010), I attended the third of my scheduled 12 "Options" classes Kaiser Permanente requires before being cleared for a Bariatric procedure.

So far, I think the program is superb, and I look forward to the remaining weekly meetings.

My classes take place in the Health Education Center at the Kaiser Hospital and Medical Center in Panorama City.

The class was described by one of the instructors as a "boot camp" for Bariatric candidates, which is very accurate. By the end of the 12 sessions, each participant will know and understand the actual procedures of the surgery and be ready mentally to make the life changes required for the procedure to be a total success.

Prior to each weeks session, each participant is scheduled for an appointment with one of the nurses in the Metabolic clinic.

In my case, the appointments are scheduled for 4:40pm. The Options class starts at 5:00pm.

At the appointment, participants have an "official" weigh-in, and a Blood Pressure reading is obtained. At the conclusion of this procedure, which takes less than 5 minutes, each participant is presented with an "After Visit Summary" which list the results.

The Options group that I am a part of is lead by two Kaiser Health Care Professionals--one leads the classes on odd numbered weeks, the other taking over on the even numbered weeks.

On the "odd" numbered weeks. the instructor is a Behaviorist, while on the even numbered weeks, we are lead by a Nutritionist. Both instructors are extremely well trained, knowledgeable, and committed to the success of the participants.

The Behaviorist discusses the social and psychological aspects of the procedures while the Nutritionist discuss the dietary needs as well as individual food plans for each participant.

Based on your weight, a specific calorie program is recommended for each party. The "rule of thumb" used to determine the correct calorie intake program is for the participant to take his or her current weight, and multiply that number by 10.

The resulting number is an estimation on how many calories are required to maintain that weight. One pound being equivalent to 3500 calories, an eating program is suggested to to reduce the number of calories daily for the next seven days. Reducing calories by 500 each day will result in ingesting 3500 fewer calories per week, or a loss of 1 pound each week. Required exercise (in my case, walking) will also burn calories.

We are cautioned to remember that your intent is not fully understood by the brain. When your brain is alerted that fewer calories are being consumed, it could signal the rest of the body "starvation" and starts to "slow down" the body's functions as a matter of self preservation. This is why you can do everything you're supposed to do, but the weight doesn't immediately come off. The "plateau" will be defeated as long as the participant sticks with the program and continues to exercise.

For me, I thought that skipping an occasional meal (usually) Breakfast would help my weight loss efforts ... WRONG. Regular meals help to keep the metabolism strong, which will result in success.

Each Options class last for 90 minutes. Prior to the start of each class, participants pick up a packet of notebook pages that covers that weeks subject. Participants also pick blank food and exercise diary pages to be used for the coming week.

In addition to information to be covered during that session, pages in the packet contains a number of quizzes and personal information gathering documents.

At the beginning of each class, the completed packets from the previous class, along with the completed food and exercise diaries are collected by the instructor.

The packets are returned to the participants on the following week after being reviewed by the instructor. Participants are free to discuss either in the group setting or in a individual conversation with the instructor any comment or concerns written by the instructor on the "homework".

The class that I am a part of has approximately 25 members with 80% of the group being female. I don't know if it is typical in other classes, but about 1/4 of our class is comprised of Kaiser employees who are interested in having the procedure performed.

So far, each session has brought a weight loss for me. While this is important, the real goal is to adjust to the "behavior modifications" required to insure total success for the procedure. We are reminded that the actual surgery is no more than a "tool" to assist in the cause. Success depends on a lifelong commitment to be selective in choosing foods, consuming a well balanced diet, and EXERCISING on a regular basis.

The program surgeon recommends that each participant looses at least 10% of their starting weight PRIOR to the surgery. This is designed to reduce the fat around the liver and makes the actual surgical procedure safer to perform. For me, this spoke highly of the program.

One concern I had was that If someone were to loose too much weight and reduce their BMI, could this be a reason for the surgery to be denied.

I was informed by Kaiser the pre-surgery, candidates are encouraged to loose as much weight as possible, AND the surgical procedure would NOT be refused or declined by the surgeon based on a new pre-surgery weight and stats.

My next Options class is scheduled for July 27th. On July 28th, I have an appoint at another Kaiser facility in Reseda for my psychological evaluation, another required part of the process.

I will return following that appointment with more info.

As of now...

My initial meeting with the Bariatric surgeon was on June 8th and my weight was 324 pounds

On the day of my first Options meeting on July 6th, my weight eas 316 pounds.

On the day of my second Options meeting on July 13th, my weight was 312 pounds.

Today at my third Options meeting (3/20/10), my weight was 309 pounds.

While I am pleased with these numbers, I must remind myself not to become a "slave" of the scale. My self worth, efforts, and commitment are NOT dependant on a number I read on a scale. The human body is a "complicated" machine, and often exhibits a mind of it's own.

I consider the group participants to be the real magic behind the program. It's always nice to be in an environment with a group of people who have experienced the same challenges, and it is nice to exchange and receive information from peers who really understand the struggle of being over-weight, but the warmth and friendliness of the group members is fantastic. Just within my short time in the program, I have had the opportunity to meet some of the greatest people on the planet.

Edited July 21, 2010 by Mr_Mason

[MaceoMack 0]

I had my surgery thru Kaiser when Options classes used to be 6 mos long, so you guys are lucky that it's now only 3 mos. But you might end up just postponing that 3 mos when you have to wait for your surgery date. Since everyone goes thru faster now, they get really backed up. In fact I think I read in another post that where I had my surgery (Harbor City) they're not taking any new patients for awhile.

The Options classes are very important. I've read numerous posts from people on this forum about how un-prepared they were after having the surgery, with no attempt at preparing for how to eat or even trying to lose weight. I felt very prepared, and as a result, knew a lot of what to expect of my new tummy.

Mr. Mason, I hope you do what's right for you, but I would highly recommend the surgery. I have no regrets and I don't miss a thing about my previous eating habits. In fact when I see restaurant commercials, the meals look so big and over sized that it's painful to imagine eating that much. I feel so lucky to have a built-in portion size regulator now! It really is almost effortless, and it's so great to know that the weight is NOT coming back on this time. Good luck to you and enjoy Options.

The Options program provides must of the needed technical information, but my real education on the subject have come from the great people like you and all those who have taken the time to post comments, experiences, and suggestions on this forum. Thanks to ALL of you!:cursing:

[mb20mom 9]

Sounds like Options is working for you. Great weight loss so far!

[Was a humpty dumpty 35]

Thank you for the update..

[Mommyof4 1]

I was in the 20 week options class starting Oct 31 2009-April 4 YES there is alot of waiting and unanswered questions. I found I could never get a straight answer as to when the surgeon would be calling or even a month that I could have my surgery. I did all my own work (Calling, making appoints, Checking on labs which they say they will do ) and actually chose Dr. Yadegar in Lancaster an outside Dr. for my surgery and was treated like a queen. I was sleeved on June 8th 2010 and I've lost 31 pounds. I do know that most of my classmates have not yet had surgery and the ones that have chose my same Dr. This site is SO helpful and Im SO thankful for all the advise. Stay strong and informed YOU SOUND VERY INFORMED Do all your homework and try to make all your appointments. GOOD LUCK

[MaceoMack 0]

I was in the 20 week options class starting Oct 31 2009-April 4 YES there is alot of waiting and unanswered questions. I found I could never get a straight answer as to when the surgeon would be calling or even a month that I could have my surgery. I did all my own work (Calling, making appoints, Checking on labs which they say they will do ) and actually chose Dr. Yadegar in Lancaster an outside Dr. for my surgery and was treated like a queen. I was sleeved on June 8th 2010 and I've lost 31 pounds. I do know that most of my classmates have not yet had surgery and the ones that have chose my same Dr. This site is SO helpful and Im SO thankful for all the advise. Stay strong and informed YOU SOUND VERY INFORMED Do all your homework and try to make all your appointments. GOOD LUCK

As I indicated, some of the greatest and most supportive people I have had the pleasure of encountering have come from the Options program and this forum.

Mommyof4 - I get the vibe that your journey will result in a resounding success. My Birthday was on June 8th, and that date has always been lucky for me:biggrin0:.

[Was a humpty dumpty 35]

I have nothing but good comments about Dr.Yadegar. I just found out today one of my co-workers had her surgery(by-pass) performed by him. Hopefully I will be referred to him when the time comes. I stopped by the health ed dept at Kaiser, to find out when I will called and they said wait for a package in the mail. So know I wait so more!

[MaceoMack 0]

I have nothing but good comments about Dr.Yadegar. I just found out today one of my co-workers had her surgery(by-pass) performed by him. Hopefully I will be referred to him when the time comes. I stopped by the health ed dept at Kaiser, to find out when I will called and they said wait for a package in the mail. So know I wait so more!

FYI

After my referral from my Primary Care Physician's office, I received my package from the Health Education Department within a week. The package included a Kaiser book call "Bariatric Surgery Preparation Program Options program" That booklet contained a lot of useful information, answered many questions, and listed what the next step would be for the procedure...which is to attend an informational class about the entire process and procedures.

Best of luck for your journey. It's a step towards a happier and healthier

lifestyle. Well worth the effort.:thumbup1:

[Mommyof4 1]

Mr. Mason,

I was just reading back on what I wrote to you and I didn't mean to sound so negative. Sorry about that. I am SO thankful that I was able to have my surgery especially with no out of pocket expense. But I just want to be honest about the Kaiser program. You sound SO positive I didn't not intend to bring you down. If you want to know first hand about my experince with Kaiser open and honest Im willing to tell all details lol Have a GREAT one!!!