Any veterans want to share information about getting treatment?

[omahajimmyt 0]

After almost 2 years of flip flopping about getting the surgery I have decided to concentrate on getting some answers from the VA. Bariatric surgery at the VA is like a secret club that won't even let you in the door. I have done online research but come up with different facts everywhere I look. I did find this.

http://www.healthquality.va.gov/obesity/obe06_final1.pdf

WEIGHT LOSS
For adults with a BMI greater than or equal to 40 kg/m2 there is good evidence from numerous high
quality systematic reviews that bariatric surgery is the only effective therapy for promoting clinically
significant weight loss (ECRI, 2005; Maggard et al., 2005; Shekelle et al., 2004).

Morbidly obese patients (i.e., those with BMI greater than 40) do not usually achieve substantial weight
loss as a result of lifestyle modifications and drug therapy. Only bariatric surgery has been
demonstrated to consistently result in profound and long-term weight loss for the morbidly obese.

One Dr I talked to refused to believe what the VA actually said. They have no problem spending money on a treatment that they themselves say doesn't work but refuse to give me any information on a treatment that does. All I can confirm is that I have to be in the MOVE program for 6 months. They will not discuss any other requirements at this time.

[Miss M 4]

What sort of surgery are you inquiring about?

[omahajimmyt 0]

I'm trying to get bariatric surgery of some sort. Not sure which type yet. Hope to talk to a Dr about my options.

[kata13 56]

6 to 12 month program is common.

[TexasD 21]

I just had lapband surgery this week, but even though I'm a veteran, we have tricare because my hubby is retired AF. The whole process took 3 months. Good luck with your journey!