Many questions regarding Kaiser

irkenpanda · February 25, 2009

I noticed a lot of info here on Kaiser's program but I still have a few questions. I am not banded and looking seriously into getting it done. I have asked my PCP about it like a year ago and he basically gave me the cold shoulder and told me there is nothing he can do and referred me to weight watchers. Been there done that, like a billion times. I constantly lose and gain back then same 15-30 pounds every year. I have had weight issues my whole life, along with everyone in my family. Should I ask him again and keep pushing the issue or request a new PCP?? Also, I am 5'5 and 216 lb so that puts me just over the 35 BMI mark so I don't know if Kaiser will even consider me. I will call member services tomorrow to find out. I am also in Northern CA (Sacramento). Thank you to anyone and everyone in advance for your help.

SillyGoose · February 25, 2009

I would definitely call member services tomorrow to find out if you would be considered at the 35 BMI. Where I am (also Northern -- Fresno), your BMI has to be 40 Or 35 with co-morbidities (sp?). I've read that some Kaiser's (southern Ca I believe) require you to have a BMI of 50!

So, see what you can find out first - then I would either go back to your PCP or possibly consider finding a new one.

The PCP I had originally didn't like the idea but still let me jump through all the hoops anyway. Finally, 9 months later I will be banded! I hear it usually takes about 6 months - 9 is what worked best for me. My PCP retired and I now have a new one that i just met yesterday and I really like him - I told him he better stick around for awhile!

Good Luck to you.

momcof3 · February 25, 2009

I am also in Sacramento and the rule is BMI of 40 or BMI of 35 with two co-morbidities. But go ahead and talk to Member Services to see if anything has changed.

irkenpanda · March 7, 2009

Thank you. I changed my PCP and saw my new one today. She said that she doesn't make the decision and she has to have me go to the "weight management overview" class first which I have scheduled for next week. So does that sound right or not? I am also going to have blood tests done tomorrow that she set up. If the class is indeed the first step, then what is next?