What was your experience with your PCP?

Ready4it · August 26, 2007

I am getting a little nervous about seeing my PCP on Thursday. I more than qualify to get the lap band, my BMI is over 40 (almost near 50) and I am so willing to do all the things necessary. I have already done so much. I don't drink soda, I am on all sugar free things now, and I'm cutting my portions down. I am just scared he isn't going to sign off because I am 18. I've been big all my life, tried so many diets and failed. I want to get this when I am younger (now) to have a better life! Everyone says they wish they could've had it at my age. I want it at my age and hope he says yes! I think he will, he really is an awesome doctor but we will see.

Now, what was your experience with your PCP? Was he/she warm to the idea? Did he/she recommend it to you? Did they help you with needing to do the things to get the insurance approval? Provide anything else you can think of!

WASaBubbleButt · August 26, 2007

Mine was great about it.

If he doesn't sign off on the procedure find out why. Is there a medical reason you can't have surgery? If he simply does not understand fat people then find a doc who does.

k2k07 · August 26, 2007

My PCP is wonderful! He's been asking what I've been doing as far as diet and exercise for the last few years. This year for my yearly I told him that I wanted the lapband. He was totally on board. He ordered all of my lab work and even went so far as to have me see a Hematologist to check on my mild anemia. He didn't want the surgeons to have any excuse NOT to do my surgery.

I think that with the new information that came out within the last couple of weeks about WLS not being cosmetic, but actually life saving will make more doctors who were against WLS for whatever reason feel more "at ease" about their patients seeking it.

As far as your age being an issue, that shouldn't be a problem for your PCP. He/She can look at your past history to see that you've been struggling with your weight. Best of luck to you.

kacee · August 26, 2007

I didn't go through my PCP for the band. I went straight to the band surgeon because I knew I was going to be self-pay. However, I did have to go to my PCP after a month out because my blood presure meds were way out of whack because of the weight loss so far. When she saw my weight she couldn't believe it. I've seen her twice since then and every time she sees my chart she is ALL SMILES.

Mary-2b150 · August 26, 2007

I didn't go through a PCP either. I went straight to the surgeon, and she submitted the pre-authorization form to my insurance. I'm not sure if it was because I am a PPO with my insurance and didn't need a referral, or if I just plain didn't need a referral. It probably depends on your insurance!

When I tried like four years ago with a different insurance, I went to my PCP and he was a downright JERK about it, so I definitely understand your concerns! But don't let them make you feel bad or talk you out of it. If they do - go to a different doctor! Goodluck with everything!

GayleTX · August 26, 2007

My PCP said he'd write me a letter of approval.....then wrote a letter to the insurance company saying I "should try weightwatchers." Traitor!! We moved, got a new PCP...he knew less than I did about it and wouldn't discuss it with me. control. I just bypassed him and went straight to the specialists after that. So....I agree with the above poster...this is a specialized field - go to a seminar or two or three....visit with a couple of band surgeons or clinics that coordinate band surgeries - they will require tests, etc that tell them if you are an appropriate candidate. You don't have to have PCP approval. I believe there is a forum on this website that is mainly for very young wls patients.

jfran · August 26, 2007

I am 23 and my PCP was very supportive. He felt that I was a good candidate and that I had given everything else a good try. He wrote a couple of different letters along with my charts and I was finally approved after the second go around. On the other hand, my mom is 51 and he has been less than supportive with her. Don't really know why???????

JulieNYC · August 26, 2007

You are in control of this, not your PCP. Go in to your PCP being well-educated and clear that you have done all the reseach, you understand this is a tool and that you're willing to do the work. If he/she denies you because of your age, explain that you're going to find a doctor who will support you because your mind is made up, and doesn't he/she wish to reconsider and actually assist you along your road to health. Show him/her the medical literature that shows that only 5% of patients with 50+ lbs to lose can actually lose it and keep it off for a year. Tell him/her that statistically, it is nearly impossible for you to maintain 100+ lost for a lifetime, much less 50+ for one single year. Tell him/her you're making the responsible choice for your long-term health and you home he/she will join you on the road, but if not, you'll find someone who will.

And you know what? You WILL find that doctor. Hopefully it'll be yours, but if not, there's one out there for you.