I just finished my 6 months the beginning of December, so my Dr office submitted my paperwork and the wait was on! The real problem came when the company I work for changed insurance companies on Dec 31st, so now I am waiting for the new company to reply. I believe that they require this in the hope that some of the people interested will just give up and go away. My recommendation is to use the time wisely, do all the research you can and practice the new lifestyle you will have to adapt to after the surgery. I lost 42 lbs during my six month pre-op and like to think that I am ready for this new part of my life to start!! (i probably just jinxed myself typing that, I totally take it back! )