Introduction, PCP, Fills...

[Guest guest]

Hi, Everybody-

Sorry for the double post on that one. My name is and I live in

Kennewick. I've been a lurker for some time, and researching WLS in

general for about 2yrs. I'm 6'5 " and 535#, BMI=63. I've resolved to

do something about my obesity, and I'm thankful for the information

and support I've seen on this and other boards.

Unfortunately, my insurance excludes WLS in any form, so I am looking

for self-pay options. I scheduled a DS in Spain with Dr Baltasar for

11/6, but cancelled once I read of risks/complications of open

surgery. I'm now convinced that AGB is the way to go. Could you

please relate stories of complications?

My concern is that no matter where I go for AGB, I need to locate a

PCP who is band friendly that could help in case of an emergency.

One Dr recommended to me in Kennewick isn't accepting new patients

(he's 60+ yrs old, so I understand). Can you recommend a PCP in Tri-

Cities, Yakima, Spokane that understands the bandster's journey?

Of course my next question is regarding fills. It's unlikely that

any PCP will do fills, but I hoped to find a Dr within 100mi that

could. Many WLS surgeons & facilities offer free followup & fills

for a period of time, but it's less convenient to get to Seattle or

Portland, much less TJ to see Dr Kuri. And nearly impossible in an

emergency. Any place for fills east of the Cascades?

Thanks very much for any help you can offer. Sincerely,

in Tri-Cities

535/235/hopefully 1/21/04 w/Dr Kuri

PS: I apologize if my name offends anyone. Had I chosen more

wisely 8yrs ago I wouldn't have to begin or end my messages with an

apology. Thanks for your understanding.