Need PCP familiar with post bariatric surgery maintenance

@traderwep, that's understandable, and probably very wise, too. In what location are you looking for a primary care provider familiar with bariatric surgery?

We live in Phoenix, Arizona

@traderwep
I understand your desire to find a PCP familiar with bariatric surgery and who can do what additional blood tests you may need. I had RNY about 14 years ago. I have yearly rechecks with endocrinology to do any tests they think are needed to monitor bariatric surgery patients, like checking iron and other tests beyond what my PCP does.

I had surgery at Mayo Rochester, and the pre and post-surgery education and monitoring are handled by the endocrinology dept.

I also have had problems with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and stomach ulcers, and take Omeprazole. I also take B12 injections. After endocrinology originally prescribed, my PCP now takes care of those prescriptions and renewals.

I would be great if PCPs could be up to date on everything, but sometimes have to defer to a specialist. Just like I have vascular problems, my PCP referred me to a vascular specialist who has more knowledge.

Do you have the opportunity to meet with a new PCP and ask whether they have experience with patients who have undergone bariatric surgery?

Hi: The difficulty is that at Honor Health as an example, the list of PCPs is 271 and no information relating to their experience, other than they are family or internal medicine. Mayo does not do primary care for new primary care patients. Calling Honor Health (I currently have no doctors there) I was advised that they have no information available to answer my question. I am hoping that others in my situation may have found such PCPs and could advise. Making appointments randomly with PCPs to obtain this information does not seem feasible. I now do believe I need an endocrinologist but my PCP has never suggested that.