I checked with BCBS of AL, which is the ins. that I have now, and as of April 28th, 2007, they will now cover lapband procedure and not just the by-pass provided that you follow the guidelines that they have set forth.
The main one seems to be going to an approved method of trying to lose weight for 6 consequtive months no less than one year prior to request for surgery. This can be 6 visits to your family physician, once per month documenting what you are doing, etc or to something like LA Weight Loss. It cannot be Weight Watchers, online weight loss sites, etc.
I am thankful that this has now been approved and that as long as I follow their guidelines (which are almost identical to the by-pass ones)
because I am about halfway thru the process now and am truly looking
forward to being able to have my surgery in the fall.
Please check with your BCBS provider and they can send you the new ruling dated April 28th, 2007.
Linda