Insurance Change :( from Cigna to Kaiser

[NikkiRX 6]

So, after all the time I took to decide to do this surgery, I finally got the long process started with my current doctor and did an orientation and had an appt to meet with the surgeon. AND NOW....my husbands work decided to change the health care options they previously offered and in order for us to stay with Cigna we would be on a High Deductible Health Plan, paying A LOT more money that we don't have. So I think we are moving to Kaiser and hate Kaiser but to survive financially we will have to move to this new plan.

What are your experiences with Kaiser, specifically Kaiser Fremont, Ca? What is their process? Do you have a specific doctor you would refer? I just need help to wrap my mind around this change and find a good doctor so I don't have to deal with the normal Kaiser crap. Any advice would be helpful.

[62race 14]

I'm going to my second WLS seminar tomorrow at Fremont Kaiser. I had to go to a intro meeting at Santa Clara Kaiser first and then my PCP referred me to Fremont. They called within a couple if days and I got into this meeting. I heard this meeting is with surgeons and nutritionist but as a group. I can let you know what I find out tomorrow. I am in a similar boat except my husband may be losing Kaiser insurance at end if year unless new job offers it. Kaiser has been good to me so I'm hoping we can keep it somehow, especially for the bariatric program. Good luck to you!

[62race 14]

Went to my second group meeting today with Dr. Dutta and a nutritionist. It was more detailed than first meeting and lasted about two hours. I didn't learn much more than I've learned from reading online but it was still very exciting. My husband came too and was very supportive. They weighed us in the beginning and I've already lost five lbs from my highest weight a few weeks ago. As soon as meeting was over they said we could book our next private appointment with a surgeon, nutritionist and coordinator. I was able to book with Dr. Hahn for December 4th. Its a three hour appt. Things are moving quickly and nicely. Dr. Dutta said after losing 10% of current weight they will schedule surgery. This was a general comment to group and not specific to me. He said if you had already lost 10% of your highest weight in last year then they could book as early as January! Now I'm reading my binder and filling out questionnaires. Also, copayment is due at this next one on one appointment. Hope that helps some of questions about Fremont Kaiser. So far so good and they seem very organized and on top of things!

[NikkiRX 6]

Thank you for sharing your experiance 62race. I am just starting my search for doctors and will look the 2 you mentioned closely. Really helps to hear your point of view.

[62race 14]

Just started my three hour consultation at Kaiser Fremont. I just met with nutritionist who said she rarely gives people fives on their assessment but I got all fives! I've lost eight pounds since end of October and next I meet with Dr. Hahn. For the past few weeks I've followed Kaiser's 1200 calorie plan and nutritionist was so happy! She says so far I'm a great candidate. So far every single person I've encountered with Fremont Bariatrics has been so nice and helpful. I will keep you updated after I meet with surgeon and coordinator.

[62race 14]

Dr. Hahn is great. Just had a great visit with him and meet with coordinator next. I need to lose about ten lbs before surgery but he said I was right on track! Everything going well!

[NikkiRX 6]

62race that sounds like a great visit! Keep up the great work!!! You really are giving me hope that Fremont is a good place to have this done.

[62race 14]

Kaiser sent me a follow up email yesterday, a week after my consultation, it seemed like a form letter but was from the surgeon. I replied back with some questions and my progress. I'm at five pounds before goal weight so he replied right away to send in my multiple choice test and call for the psych appointment! I called and they had an appointment today but unfortunately I couldn't make it. So I have my psych appt on Tuesday the 16th. I'm hoping to speak with coordinator again to see about scheduling ASAP so I fall under my husband's current insurance which expires January 31st. Fingers crossed! Things going smoothly still!

[NikkiRX 6]

Sorry I took so long to resopnd. I hope your process is going well . I just transferred to kaiser and waiting dor an appt.

[62race 14]

Things going well! I got my surgery date of Feb 17! Preop is the 4th. Started process in November with surgery in February is three months.. Not bad. I'm very excited. Let me know if you have any questions. I am happy to help and share what I know! Having Kaiser handle everything in one spot has been very convenient and simple. Good luck! Keep me posted.