It may be easier. But it depends on your insurance, also. There are several different plans with each insurer. Large company group plans are usually self insured and have companies like Blue Cross as the administrator. The company tells Blue Cross what is covered and what is not. My Blue Cross plan is through a large health care company, so it may have been a little easier. Plus, the band has caused 7 years of GERD which has caused erosive esophagitis. I would think that having a lap band would qualify for the 6 months on a previous plan for any insurer. When are you having your surgery? I haven't totally committed yet. I go to the informational session on Tuesday. It makes me nervous to have a portion of my stomach cut away.