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No, Regence required only that I was 100 pounds over weight for at least the last five years. They did ask for additional documentation from the provider after everything was sumitted. They wanted 5 different chart notes, in five different years, stating weight. So, we just started looking through chart notes and found ones that where good. Like, there the doctor and I had been discussing weight or weight related problems. It really didn't take that much time for the approval. I was surprised! Let me know if you end up with Regence and how your process goes. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask. Charlene

Hi Everyone, I have wonderful news with a bit of a spin! I started the process to get approved back in October 2006. At the time my insurance didn't cover LAP Band, it only covered GBP. And I asked if they planned on coving it in teh future, but the lady said they didn't know. After meeting with Dr. Earl Fox, I decided I would pay for it and then deal with my insurance. So, on December 22nd I had LAP Band at Auburn Regional Medical Center. I'm doing great! Now, it's March 1st and on February 26th I got an approval letter from my insurance company for LAP Band. Subject to all terms in the Plan, i.e. eligibility date. Well, I called my insurance company and asked when did you start covering LAP Band? January 1st, 2007!!!!:faint: A whole nine days... So, I have called all the comapnies and people that I have already paid and asked them to send my insurance the bill. I want to know if anyone has had this happen and did you get it covered after appeals? If anyone has any advise with regards to the appeal process, that could :help: me, I would appreciate it. Thanks for listening! Charlene

Yes, as of Jan 1, 2007 my husband's plan covers LAP Band. His plan is with the Boeing Company. I don't know if each companies coverage is different or not with Regence. It's worth checking into. Good Luck! Charlene

I just found out that our Regence Blue Shield a Boeing plan covers LAP Band as of Jan 1st, 2007. I had my surgery on Dec 22, as the insurance company didn't inform me that this would be a covered benefit in the new year. Even thought I had called the insurance company five or six times since September, but know one could tell me or funny how know one knew. We have now sent in all the required papers and just got a letter on Friday, asking for additional information. They wanted five different visits in five different years, showing my weight being over 100 pounds or double my ideal body weight. So, it has been faxed and we will see. If anything I will appeal it until it's exausted. Good Luck, finding a company that will cover your surgery. Charlene Clifton Banded: Dec 22, 2006 Dr. Earl Fox, Auburn Regional Medical Center First fill: Feb 8, 2007 2.5cc

Thank you Vivian! I think it's important to know symptoms of slippage. Everything I read doesn't really explain what you would be feeling. You have given us a very detailed explaination and it will be helpful for everyone. Charlene

My doctor suggested the same ones. So, I guess we are the right track.

Hi, I'm Charelene and I was banded on Dec 22nd by Dr. Earl Fox in Auburn, Washington. So, far things have been going okay. However, I have pain on my left side, not near any incisions. I was wondering if anyone knows if the band can cause pain? Thanks for any information you can give.

Hi, Can someone that has had a slippage, tell others what there symtoms where? or if they had any? Thanks

Hi Everyone, I was banded on Dec 22nd, by Dr. Fox at Auburn Regional Medical Center in Washington State. Today, I have some pain on my left side were the port is but, other than that I'm feeling pretty good. I'm glad that there is a great support group out here and looking forward to being part of it. Charlene

Hi All, Today, is the first day I have felt really good. I have my one week post-op appt tomorrow so, things are moving a long smoothly. I just wish I could eat something more than liquids. I have been reading and it seems that ever doctor has his own idea when to start foods. Does anyone have any great liquid ideas? Thanks for all your support.

I was banded on Dec 22th and have been having pain right above my port. The port site feels fine otherwise. I'm hoping it just pain fom the surgery. Let me know if yours goes away? I think I will call the dr on Tuesday.

Thanks for the support! I believe we are all here for one reason or another but, in the end we all want to be healthly and full of life. Hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas and a great New Year!