I was banded on 2-14-07 and I have FBCBS and they have just paid the Dr's, I am still waiting for them to pay the hospital. They will not pre certify and yes I had to have 6 months of diet. Also had a letter from my PCP stating medical necessity. I had 3 of the 5 co-morbities. It was iffy at the least if they would pay, but I decided it was worth the chance. So I went forward and took the chance. I have lost 30 lb since I started the liquid diet on Feb 1, and no longer have acid reflux (woo-hoo) 4 pills I don't have to take now.