roland130

Thanks, gg2007.

Angela, Do you know when the St. Mary's support group meets? Shirley

Hi, Ciconetti,I endured the nightmare of BCBSIL & finally was approved! They are so picky about documentation. They would not accept a letter from by PCP listing the dates I was seen by her for medical supervision of weight loss diet. They would not accept a summary either. I finally had my PCP senc copies of all 35 pages of my records for the last 12 months! Joyce @ Dr. Schroder's office was so wonderful in helping get everything together. My date is 9/05 for my banding at St. Mary's. I live in Chesterfield, near Midlothian, so it isn't far to drive. Good Luck! Shirley

I have read several posts talking about "PB'ing". Can anyone tell me what PB is? I assume it is unpleasant.

I am Sept. 5th, too - Richmond, VA

Great idea! Mine in Friday, September 5th. Shirley

No road blocks now. It took insurance 12 months to approve me even though my BMI is 48 & I have multiple health problems related to obesity. Doing some reading on the protein powder to find one that doesn't taste bad.

Anyone in Richmond, VA getting banded September 5th? It seems so far away.

I just got approved today. It took me 18 months!!! At first I had to submit letters from all my MD's stating it was medically necessary. hey required that you be at least 100 lbs. overweight & have at least 3 comorbidities such as diabetes, high blood pressure & have tried weight loss unsuccessfully for at least 5 years. Then the various diets I've been on, at least 5 yrs. worth plus 6 consecutive months of medically supervised diet & exercise - chronological Dr's. notes, not a summary letter. Once that was submitted, they requirred 12 consecutive months instead of 6. They try to wear you down. You just have to be persistent & don't give up.

Hi! I am new to this site. I just got insurance approval today & have the 4 hour class at St, Mary's on July 14. Can anyone give me a ballpark cost for the lapband at St. Mary's Richmond, VA. My insurance covers 80%. just don't want to have a heart attack when I get the bill!