how do I get referred to a different hospital?

I got a referral from my GP to A thorasic surgeon at Mayo clinic Phoenix . Got my approval from Blus Cross Idaho to be seen by the Doctor at Mayo . Called to make an appointment and was told by Mayo scheduling that they do not accept Medicare Advantage , so would not schedule me. Very frustrating : back to squere one um 75 at 4.5 ascending AA . Doug

I am not 100% sure, but I believe Mayo in Rochester accepts a Medicare Advantage plan or two, whereas Phoenix and Jacksonville do not. I can’t explain why all Mayo facilities don’t follow the same procedure, but I recall reading elsewhere on this board that’s the case.

I did the same thing, just contacted Mayo Phoenix through their website and email. They called within a week and requested my records. Saw them a week later. This was 3 months ago. It's 5 am on July 8th. At 5:30 this morning I check in for a new Aorta and metal heart valve. I'll let ya know how it goes.

That's awesome! Good luck, wishes that you heal fast if you have surgery!

Had my 5.0 root, 4.4 AAA, and aortic valve replaced exactly one week ago today at Mayo Clinic in Phoenix.
Checked in at 5:30 AM after a small local dinner of sacloops, risotto, and two beers (yes, I had the green light from the clinic for a beer!). Then, slept surprisingly well, all things considered.
Once in pre-op, they strapped in all the wires and tubes, and before I knew it, I was out cold. I had two requests before going under:
Please remove the breathing tube before I wake up.

Please make sure I’m somewhat coherent before my wife and daughters come in—I didn’t want to freak them out.

What felt like 30 seconds later, I woke up in what I can only describe as a surreal warzone. Tubes still down my throat, my wife and daughters telling me to calm down, and me thinking, “What the hell is going on?” FORTUNATELY, the staff was incredible and helped me calm down. I was in and out for the next couple of hours, then finally woke up fully in the ICU, where I spent the night.
That first night was complete sensory overload. I maybe slept 4 hours—not great sleep either. By day three, I was starting to feel better, though still exhausted from walking and constant interruptions. Sleep was terrible. Hiccups started the next day and haven't left (if anyone has a remedy, let me know).
BUT—despite all that—I feel a million times better. More energy, minimal pain, solid appetite. The pain has been manageable just by following the prescribed regimen and meds. Rolling over and moving around gets easier every day.
Seven days out, and I truly can’t overstate how lucky I feel. Yes, the surgery was intense, but I’ve had worse cases of the flu. And the Mayo staff? Absolutely outstanding—from custodians to the head of surgery.
Really grateful. If anyone has questions—whether about this or the brain aneurysm surgery I had three years ago—feel free to reach out

Sounds like you’re making a wonderful recovery !!!
Reassuring to hear about your journey!
Do you feel like you have more energy now than before surgery?
How many days were you in ICU?
My husband’s surgery at Mayo will be August 19th…anxious during this waiting time for sure… I plan to stay at the hotel next to the Phoenix campus

You look great , all things considered! Overwhelming I’m sure to be hooked up to so many devices right after surgery!

You were happy with Dr Sell Dottin?

Did your wife stay overnight with you in the hospital?
It seems wise that you decided to stay here for a week after surgery !

I hope you continue to heal well, with good continuity of care in California.

Thanks for sharing!

Yes, very happy with her. She has a great reputation at the site. My wife and I both there now.