KatieD6982

If I am remembering correctly, I believe the requirements are lengthy for my Bariatric Team. I spoke with someone about a year ago who said I have to meet with a NUT and Psych, and complete some physical testingI was also told there is a whole book and binder full of modules for me to complete, as well as so many support group meetings, and educational classes to complete. It's the typical 6 month process I guess.

I'm trying to connect with others in PA or others who have used Geisinger for their Bariatric Surgery (I think the surgeries are performed at Geisinger Danville.) I would love to chat with those people who have been through the process and to hear any advice they may have. Thanks in advance! Katie

I'm in Centre County, near State College. I will be seeing docs in the Greys Woods Geisinger. I believe the surgeries are performed at their main hospital in Danville, PA.

For those of you who have started the process, are in process. Can you spell out what you've been asked to do so far? For instance, did you need to get a referral from your family doc? What was the first meeting with the Bariatric Team like? What did they require you do before approving you for surgery? (I know each is different, I'm curious...) I don't meet with the Bariatric docs here until August 26th. I'm curious to see what others have experienced and what they've been told the process is... THANK YOU!!!

I'm a newbie!!! I just scheduled my referral appt with my family doc this Wednesday and can't get in to see the Bariatric docs until August 26th. I'm so excited but also worried at the same time. I'm currently 5'3 and 245lbs...so my BMI is a 43 by the CDC.gov site calculator. I'm pretty sure my insurance (Highmark PPO Blue, Pennsylvania) still has the 6 month education requirement but I am so ready to begin this process. I would LOVE to make some friends on here to talk with as we go through this! -Katie

Hi! I'm Katie. I am a mother of two kids ages 9 and 6. I am just beginning in this process. I go this Wednesday for my family doctor referral and then August 26th for my original surgery consult. I'm excited and scared all at the same time. My BMI is 43 and I'm hoping that is enough to qualify me. I've been lucky enough to not have any serious health problems. I just need to be approved by my insurance company and go through 6 months of education and evals.... so, here's hoping!

I have BCBS Highmark (live in PA) anyone have that insurance?

CONGRATS! I'm just starting my journey. I hope all went well for you!

Well, I'm behind all of ya! I'm Katie, I'm new here. I called for my consult appt this morning and they are booked until September so I had to get on the cancellation list. I am 5'4 and 245 lbs so my BMI is 41-42, I'm hoping they approve me. The program around here takes 6 months of support groups, a binder full of learning modules, and a whole bunch of meetings with different doctors in order to get the surgical ok. So, I have a long road ahead of me. I would love to keep in touch!