In queue for bottom surgery

[Ceera]

Well, another step closer, and more hurry up and wait. Today I got scheduled for my first consultation appointment with the surgeon that will be doing my bottom surgery. But that appointment is nearly three years from now! Hoping they have a cancellation before then, and can move me up in the queue. But at least I am in the queue at all now. It’t gonna be a long wait...

[Lana Mae]

Congrats, Ceera! You are moving right along! I have been following your story from the beginning! You sharing your experiences has been helpful for many here! Best wishes for your continued success on your journey! Hugs Lana Mae

[Mirya]

3 year waitlist just for the first consultation? That is a super long wait!

May I ask which surgeon? Based on your location I'm going to guess Dr Dugi?

[Ceera]

Yes, Mirya, it will be Dr Dugi, at OHSU. He has the necessary skills and experience. He is close enough to drive to, and practices in a town where I have supportive relatives. And most importantly for me, he accepts patients whose insurance is Oregon’s Medicaid. I am retired, and I have no other insurance that covers transgender surgeries. My only other insurance is from the Veterans Administration, and they do not cover the surgery at all.

I had contact with another very skilled surgeon who does part of his practice in Portland, and he only has about a one year waiting queue. But he does not accept Medicaid, so I can’t afford him. I can not afford to go out of area, or to pay the surgery cost out of pocket.