Family Doctor or Bariatric Surgeon first?

[GSNC 0]

Do I have to see my family doctor first and then he recommends me to a bariatric surgeon? Or do I just make an appointment with the bariatric surgeon? Thanks

[JUKU 1]

It may depend on your insurance. You may need to be referred to the bariatic surgeon by your regular doctor first.

[RestlessMonkey 7]

I agree, it depends on the requirements of your insurance. Insurance is the BEST place to start this journey; not all policies cover lap band surgery. Once you see if your ins. covers, and see if you need a physician referral, then your next step (after getting a referral letter if required, or skipping the PCP referral if it isn't) will be to attend a seminar. Most surgeons and/or centers advise patients attend a seminar BEFORE the meeting with the surgeon.

[JayTee562 1]

Your family Dr may have good advise on which surgeon to go to. I hand no intrest in going to the surgeon my Dr. sent me to but after meeting him I'm glad that's where I was went. My insurance curent does not require refferral but the one I had when I started did. However my current insurance did require a letter from my family Dr.