Psychological Evaluation

Another step completed. Most insurance companies and Surgeons require a psychologial evalulation of the patients before they ok the surgery and perform the surgery. I am no different. I had my appointment with they psychologist yesterday.

Well, the view from his office was amazing. It was the bay and Presque Isle. I bet it is spectacular during the summer. The bay is still slightly frozen, but that won't last long. He asked me several questions. Mostly background questions on my health and mental history. We did spend a good 10 minutes discussing my attempted suicide back in 1996. We discussed what I knew of the surgery, what I expected from it. I told him my ultimate goal was 150 lbs, but I would settle for anything under 200 lbs. I like the range between 180 and 150.

We also discussed my plans for exercizing. I am walking about 3 times a week right now for 30 minutes. I will be adding a day to that, I am also looking into purchasing an ellipical machine. He gave me great advice on that. A lot of the appointment was similar to sitting down and talking with my PCP for the first time. He was very relaxed and very nice.

When he was done interviewing me, I had to take a test to determine my Mental Acuity. 165 True or False questions...like "You crossed the Atlantic over 30 times last year" and "I am answering these questions in a way to make me look good."

Well after all 165 questions were done, my appointment was almost over. He explained that his report would be sent to my surgeon in about a week with his recommendation. I don't see there being a problem, I know what to expect from the surgery, have plenty of help and lots of support.