Have you got your Doctors support? - ThinnerTimes

kel2510 · 07-21-2008, 12:06 PM

Hiya people.

I was just wondering if there was anyone else who is having problems with getting their GP to support them with their WLS? (I know this probably only applies mainly to UK residents)

I am having my RNY in Belguim on the 30th July, and I have just realised that I am supposed to have a blood test and send the results to my surgeon prior to surgery. Well, I just called my med centre to arrange this and they said they cant help me because it is a private surgery and they want nothing to do with me. Also if I have any problems after the surgery related to the WLS, they dont want to know

. My normal doctor is away on hoilday, but he did say he would treat me after the surgery, but he cant /will not have anything to do with the WLS.

I feel totally deflated by this. I can get a breast enlargement, tummy tuck, nose job...all payed for by the MOD health system, but I cant get a blood test?? I am saving them a fortune by paying for this myself, and saving them more money in the long run as I should not need to be treated for obesity related problems after surgery!

I am a British Army wife, so looked after by the MOD health service here in Germany. Or should I say NOT looked after by the health service! lol

Sorry to go on, I just feel so fed up with this sort of stuff. Any advice would be gratefully taken

Thanks for listening,

Kel xx

trish29 · 07-21-2008, 12:22 PM

I also have had BAD luck with unsupportive doctors. Basically, you gotta just keep lookin. Or ask the actual surgeon doing your procedure for a referral. Thats what I had to do....

Good luck.

rachalrg · 07-21-2008, 12:30 PM

I'm sorry to hear that. Where in Germany are you? I'm in Mannheim at the moment. I am however an American Army Wife and our health plan is covering it. There aren't any private labs here that will do the test for you?

kel2510 · 07-21-2008, 12:43 PM

Thanks for the replies,

I'm in Sennelager, about an hour from Hannover!

I only have 1 med centre I can use, and as far as I am aware, I cant go privately in Germany as I am not on the German net as I am still a British citizen. I think the Germans have a similar insurance based helath care to America. But please dont quote me on that, as I am not totally sure!

Just a pain in the bum! Hopefully will get some support!

Kel xxxx

rachalrg · 07-21-2008, 01:14 PM

ohhh...you're in Northern Germany. Hey have you called your insurance company to see what suggestions they may have? There's something that can be done, I mean c'mon! lol

kel2510 · 07-21-2008, 01:25 PM

Hi Rachal,

We dont have insurance for Health care in the UK. We have a National Health Service which is free for all! Even though I'm in Germany, I am still classed as a UK citizen as I am here as a dependant of a Serving British Soldier, so basically the Armed forces takes care of any medical needs, like the NHS would look after me in the UK. A bit confusing sorry

I'm not the best at explaining things! lol

My Doctors who look after me here, will not help me with anything to do with my surgery, as is is a private surgery paid for by me and in Belgium. They will not treat me for WLS at my med centre, which is why I am having elective private surgery. But you'd think they would help out with 1 little blood test??

Anyway, I think I have confused myself

Take care,

Kel xxx

rachalrg · 07-21-2008, 01:30 PM

Poor thing! Well all I can tell ya is that I'm gonna pray for you and rely on the my faith that you'll get through this all right! I know you will! You didn't confuse me by the way, I understand what you mean now.

What kind of prep do you have to do for your surgery? My surgeon didn't give me any certain liquid diet or anything for pre-op prep. I'm just curious as to what your doc gave you or anyone else.

kel2510 · 07-21-2008, 01:44 PM

Hiya,

My surgeon does not require me to a pre op diet. However, I can see the benefits of this diet as it shrinks your liver, making the surgery easier. My BMI is 37, so I'm only just qualifying for surgery due to other health problems. But I still feel as big as an elephant!

The only prep I have been asked to do is the blood test and to wash in Hibiscrub solution starting a couple of days before surgery and on the day of the op! To minimise germs on my skin

Its only 9 days now...yay!!

Thanks for your words and support, they mean a lot.

Kel xxx