Bourgeois

Hello Does anyone have BCBSAZ PPO insurance? If so, do they cover weight loss surgery? Thank you

It really has a lot to do with what plan your employer decides on. I wish it was that easy for me. Does she have the BCBS of Arizona?

I wish I could do Curves...but gyms are not for me. I have been walking and using workout tapes. I've tried the gym thing, but all I ever did was waste my membership card. I am more the outdoorsy type. Once I can build some confidence in going to a gym, then I will think about it.

I am going to make an appointment to see Dr. Simpson I was told that they have not had anyone been approved by BCBS. I will give it a try and if all fails then I will have to finance it. Thanks for the advice!

I know.....it is a shame.....so I may have to go in debt just to get the lapband. I am still trying to make a decision on what to do right now. It is so depressing to think about it.

Yes...they cover...it is going to be a challenge to try to get BCBS to pay for the lapband. So, Ihave made a decision to try to self pay. Here is the policy: SURGERY FOR MORBID OBESITY (cont.) Criteria: (cont.) A. Bariatric Surgery: (cont.) Bariatric surgery is considered medically necessary with documentation of ALL of the following: (cont.) 3. Diagnosis of morbid obesity for the past consecutive 5 years 4. Failure of non-surgical methods of weight loss with documentation of the following: ▪ Continuous participation in a weight loss program for 6 months or longer within the past 12 months. Weight loss program includes: - A structured program that includes documentation of diet and dates of participation (a minimum of one face-to-face visit per week attendance for dietary counseling/education is required), and, - A structured exercise program (unless medically contraindicated) designed and supervised by a certified or qualified professional with documentation of attendance (a minimum of three sessions per week of participation in an exercise program is required), and, - Demonstration of a commitment to results by documenting weight loss, maintenance, or no more than a 5 pound weight gain over a minimum six month period 5. Pre-operative clinical assessment and documentation must reflect a significant motivation and understanding of the risks associated with the intended surgery, as well as an understanding of the life-long restricted eating habits that will follow. 6. Clinical documentation must reflect a plan for active participation in both a pre-surgical instructional program AND a post-surgical, post-operative or follow-up program. Clinical documentation must reflect participation in pre-operative nutritional counseling and that there is a plan in place for post-operative nutritional counseling as well. 7. Individual is 18 years of age or older 8. Individual has no treatable condition that may be responsible for the morbid obesity, e.g., endocrine, metabolic, etc. 9. Individual has no significant liver, kidney or gastrointestinal disease 10. Individual has no drug or alcohol abuse – must be abstinent for 12 months or more if there is a history of drug or alcohol abuse I have most of it, except for the enrollment of a exercise program. I am unable to afford the gym card along with the 1000.00 access fee.

I have BC/BS AZ and I have a problem. Here it is: BC/BS of AZ: Current history and physical, psychological evaluation, nutritional consultation with licensed nutritionist, 5 years medical records, letter of recommendation from PCP, and continuous participation in a weight loss program for 6 months or longer within the past 12 months. Weight loss program includes: · A structured program that includes documentation of diet and dates of participation (a minimum of one face to face visit per week attendance for dietary counseling/education is required. And · A structured exercise program (unless medically contraindicated) designed and supervised by a certified or qualified professional with documentation of attendance (a minimum of three sessions per week of participation in an exercise program is required) and, · Demonstration of a commitment to results by documenting weight loss, maintenance, or no more than a 5 pound weight gain over a minimum six month period. I have everything except for the exercise program. Weight Watchers(2004-6months)Do I have a chance of getting this approved? Has anyone ever got approved with some of these requirements? I guess I am holding on to a little faith that I have left...at this point I have given up and just have to realize that I will be obese for the rest of my life.

Wow...I might have to check into Scottsdale Bariartric. Have you ever heard of Dr. John Debarros from WLIA? I have not done a consultation yet, so I am still shopping around.

WOW....that is great. I will be on BCBS in January 2008. I was 2 months into my 6 months with a BMI of 46. Who are you having to do your lapband?

Does anyone have BCBS Arizona? Of so have they been approved for the lapband? Thanks

Chris,could you please send me a copy of your approval letter? I would much appreciate it. bourgeoisqueen@hotmail.com

Hello Does anyone know if BCBSAZ PPO covers weight loss surgery? If so, please respond. Thank you

Help My husband's insurance(UHC Choice plus) does not cover WLS. So now I am back to square 1. I was thinking about getting BCBS from my employer. I need some advice on what to do. I desperately need this surgery.I have co-morbidities such as high blood pressure and BMI of 45 and my PCP stated in my last doctor visit that I would be a candidate for lapband surgery. Please help me:cry

I have the same insurance, but my husband's employer does not cover WLS. You are so lucky.