Things You'll Need:
- Medical records
- Insurance policy
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Step 1
Make an appointment for a consultation with a good bariatric surgeon. Don't expect to get the surgery immediately, the consultation is to determine if bariatric surgery is right for you.
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Step 2
Ask about any consultation fee the surgeon charges and how that can be paid. This fee can often be charged to your insurance company, so find out ahead of time.
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Step 3
Ask the bariatric clinic where you will have your consultation for an informational packet to be sent to you and study it before you go. It is important to be well informed so you can ask the right questions.
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Step 4
Have a copy of your insurance policy handy to help determine if your insurance will pay for the surgery expense.
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Step 5
Collect medical records from other doctors you are seeing to take to your consultation appointment. This could help the process of getting approval for your surgery from both the surgeon and your insurance company move faster.
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Step 6
Use the consultation as an audition for the surgeon. Evaluate the surgeons bedside manner, expertise, credentials, work environment and staff. You should be discriminating about who get to perform your surgery.
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Step 7
Prepare a list of questions to ask the surgeon at the consultation. One of the primary functions of a consultation is to provide you with all of the necessary information you need to determine if bariatric surgery is something you want and need to do. This is your opportunity to ask about possible complications, pain expectations, recuperation, possible weight loss, life after surgery and risks.
