I Feel So Guilty For Wanting The Gastric Sleeve Surgery This Year...

[indi1 66]

I have finally started posting after lurking for almost a year! I have learned so much. In that time I have completed my 6th month supervised diet, all tests, visits, etc. Called my surgeons office last week to let them know my PCP was sending all the paperwork over and to expect it, so they could submit to insurance. They told me at that point they were completely booked till February. I was really upset as I had been trying to work with them and my PCP to squeeze this in this year. First reason is my work has a "lock down" period at the end of December into January, so my leaving at that time would be manageable when I returned to work. Second reason is that I have met almost all of my out of pocket expenses for this year with BCBS-IL and would have to pay next to nothing. Otherwise, it this doesn't happen till next year, I will have to pay a big chunk. I do believe this is worth any amount of money, but it just seems like that would be throwing money away because my surgeon is booked. I have spoken to his once for the consultation, but other than that, I don't see what other obligation I have to him.

Question: If his office submits to insurance for approval, does that mean I have to have him do the surgery or is that approval good for any surgeon?

I'm really thinking about contacting another surgeon as there are other "high profile" surgeons in the area. Just not sure why I feel so guilty about reaching out to another when I've only just spoken to him once.

[favoredone 590]

I think if you find a surgeon that you trust, go for it.. I'm unsure as to how the approval process works, I guess they approve the surgery and not just the surgeon??!!??..

[goldenraisin214 142]

hi, indi1. i agree with favoredone--if you can find another surgeon you're comfortable with, go for it--in the grand scheme of things, your well-being (and financial situation) are more important than a surgeon you've spoken to one time losing a patient. he'll probably shrug it off, while for you, a lot more is riding on you being able to get it done this year. just my two cents.

[LilMissDiva Irene 3,282]

Absolutely, if you can find another surgeon who is just as experienced and reputable don't worry about making the change. This is YOUR journey, no one else's. It does sound like you have boundaries on when is the best time for you to have surgery. Having to wait an entire extra year and paying a lot more out of pocket is a major reason to seek alternatives. You will want to do this with as little stress as possible, because just having this surgery is stressful enough.

You said so, you only spoke to this Dr. one time. You are not bound to him at all.

Hugs! You will figure it out.

[longer-life 139]

I understand the guilt. I tend to be very loyal to my nail girl, hair guy etc. Having said that, I would look for a surgeon of excellence in your area (not necessarily high profile) and call them about availability. Make sure you call your insurance first though. They might have certain providers or hospitals they require.

Once you have it all secure, then call the first surgeons office, explain briefly why you will leave & thank them. This surgery is about you, your recovery, your finances, your health. Go for it girl!

Do know though that "high profile" and experienced is not the same. If I was you, I'd make sure your surgeon is a "surgeon of excellence" practicing at a "hospital of excellence". You can find out the info easily online. Best wishes!!!

[monty 18]

Have you spoken directly with your surgeon or only the scheduler? Sometimes if the surgeon knows the circumstances s/he will make an exception and stay late, come in another day etc. If he had an emergency surgery they would find room and sometimes they allow room in the schedule for that. I would definitely plead my case directly even if the only way to see him was another appointment face to face. They are human and if he says "no" then you'll feel no guilt switching ( though you shouldn't anyway)! It's your money! Let us know what happens.

[indi1 66]

Thanks, I don't feel so bad now.I called BCBS and they said that when they approve it, it can be used at any surgeon in the network. I checked the next hospital that is a "Blue Distinction" Bariatric Center in the network. (Which is what I meant by "High Profile", I just couldn't remember what it was called at the time Unfortunately,they are booked as well. Tomorrow I will go further out and try the next one.

[indi1 66]

Oh and Monty, I am going to call the original surgeons office tomorrow and plead my case again with the coordinator. I doubt they would let me talk to the surgeon directly since I don't have anything scheduled, but I may ask anyway. All I can do is irritate them:)

[longer-life 139]

I checked the next hospital that is a "Blue Distinction" Bariatric Center in the network. (Which is what I meant by "High Profile", I just couldn't remember what it was called at the time :smile1:

LOL! Gotcha! Best wishes!

[Last Chance Sue 4]

I had a very similar situation. Also BCBS-IL. Anyway, the bariatric clinic held up the paperwork for almost a month. When I called the surgeon's office she told me that there was no way I would have the surgery this year, because he was all booked. Well I faxed a letter to the surgeon and to the bariatric clinic, explaining why this surgery is a physical necessity for me, why I cannot have it done next year (very similar to your case) affordability, job restrictions. The next day I got a call that he can do my surgery Dec. 19.! Amazing. Just waiting now for BCBS approval. Keep after your doc - it can't hurt

[indi1 66]

Last chance- Thanks for the input and you are right, it certainly can't hurt. BCBS also told me yesterday that if they put a date on the predetermination form, it may get approved sooner because they are supposed to look at those first. I have just never been the "squeaky wheel", but I'm going to start.