Having a Devil of A Time Getting PCP Approval

[Oblong 2]

GRRRR! I don't know why, but I'm having the worst time getting my letter of approval for my surgery. It's like my doctor doesn't want to approve it. The group (NJ Bariatrics) is well known in the area. I was scheduled for bloodwork, but NJB doesn't want me to be stuck twice for blood draws if I have to have bloodwork drawn for surgery for them. I should be able to just have the results for that sent to my PCP.

When I went to see my PCP (a new doctor for me), I'd explained my history with weight loss, explained why I wanted the lap band, and why I was there to see her - to just get the letter that says yes, my BMI is high enough (268 pounds at 4'11") to need the surgery. SHE wants me to keep a food diary, etc. I'VE DONE THAT ALREADY!! IT DOESN'T WORK!!! Plus I told her I'm already working with the nutritionist at NJB!

All I need is the flipping letter from her, and it's like pulling teeth. If diet and exercise was gonna work, I wouldn't be over 100 pounds overweight.

Has anybody had any probems getting their letter from their PCP? Should I go to another doctor? I don't see what the problem is.:eek:

[MyDay2Shine 1]

Hi Oblong,

It took my Primary 3 weeks to write my referral letter. I was going crazy wanting to get the show on the road. That was back in July. I had a conversation with her recently and I think she was taking so long because she was researching the Lap band, she told me a few weeks ago that Lap band is the ONLY bariatric surgery she would ever support her patients in pursuing. I could be wrong but I got the idea that she just wanted to know what exactly she was referring me for, and ultimately she decided to do the referral. I think if I were in your place and my primary was not doing what I needed, I would find a new primary. Perhaps the bariatric clinic could recommend a primary that works well with banded patients? Just a thought. Good luck to you and finding your way through this process. Don't give up!:eek:

[SuzanneG 1]

I would def find a new PCP. She sounds like an ass. I find I don't care for women doctors as a rule. I used to have a female PCP and after trying every diet there was, as well as pills, she wanted me to try the pills again. I told her that they were making me so mean that I was going to end up in divorce court if I took them again and besides they didn't work for me. She said "would you rather be FAT?". That did it for me, I switched doctors that day.

I love my new PCP and he's very pleased with my progress.

By the way, my bariatric team has a woman NP and I love her!

[Oblong 2]

Well, I'm switching doctors. I faxed over what NJB needed, and told the doctor that if she had no intention of giving me the letter, to please let me know. I gave her till the end of business yesterday to get back to me, and told her if I didn't hear from her, I was cancelling my appoinment.

I didn't hear from her. I called, cancelled my Monday appointment, and schedule one with another doctor for Monday. Wish me luck! Hopefully I'll have my letter by this time next week!

[SuzanneG 1]

How did your appointment go? Was the new doc what you were hoping for?

[Oblong 2]

I went to the new doctor, who did his exam, gave me an EKG, and wants me to see a cardiologist for a stress test because he saw ST-T wave changes. So now, yet ANOTHER delay. He also thinks my lung capacity may have shrunk because of my weight... Or that I have asthma. I've NEVER been diagnosed with asthma, so I'm not really paying attention to that.

Feeling a bit discouraged today. It seems like this will never happen now. :-(

[SuzanneG 1]

Hang in there. I read where another bander had a heart condition and didn't know it. His lapband surgery revealed it and now he has the band and his heart is being treated.

Maybe this is a blessing in disguise.

I'm cheering for you!