ReadyToEvolve

That is good to know! I was on steroids for about 2 years for an autoimmune disease, so not nearly as long as you but damage was done. I was able to find a psychologist that is licensed in my state but does them via telehealth and is a specialist in eating disorders and bariatrics. I have an appointment a few months out, but it was for when I wanted to schedule, they did have openings much earlier even within a few weeks of when I first inquired.

Following this thread. I wonder if the different states have slightly different requirements regardless of federal plan, because subbed out to the different areas. So far I see in WA it’s with either Primera or regence and their requirements differ slightly even amongst them here and what I was provided via FEP was the same as the local requirements. I read up on a few other states and there are additional differences. Have my first visit next week so hoping to clear up some additional questions. I had doc appointments but wasn’t weighed there and guessed my weight at the time (facepalm) this was before I knew/wanted the surgery. Also I think my height has changed and I’ve been using what I thought I was forever and that would also alter BMI. Hoping I don’t have to wait even longer….

Hi! New here too. Scheduled to have my first visit with surgeon next week. Nervous but excited to get this show on the road. 40 with 3 kids (9,4,2). I’m out on the west coast. I have to do 3 months supervised nutrition so I have my fingers crossed I can get through it all and approved for a December surgery so it works for me and hubby to take leave from work.

According to the benefits brochure in the bariatric surgery section an "individual with a BMI of 35 or more with one or more comorbidities" is eligible for the procedures listed. What are the specific comorbidities have you been approved with if you had a BMI between 35-40. I have had documented high cholesterol in the last year, but I am not sure it is enough. I am currently at a BMI over 40, but that was only documented at a doc visit in May, I've been over 35 for years though. Additionally, were you required to show "Evidence that attempts at weight loss in the 1-year period prior to surgery have been ineffective". Has anyone used their data from Peloton classes? I did those consistently last year, but not this year... regardless, they didn't move me below a BMI of 35. Hoping all this plus that I am now over BMI 40 is in my favor. Meeting with the doc in the next couple weeks.

Good point! I appreciate your advice. I am really hoping that I can move through the process with little to no hiccups. I didn't know this was an option for very long. Thanks again for your comments!!!

My plan lists 3 months of medically supervised weight loss program and nutrition classes, nutritional counseling, as well as psych eval. It was the 1 year @ BMI 40 and evidence of attempted weight loss which threw me. I think I found a good program, but will wait to see how the first consult goes and see if I need another. I just got a new PCP and didn't discuss with her... but also doesn't say a referral is required soooo 😬

Thats a relief, I reread it all and started to worry. I'm not on medication for it, but topic was discussed a while back with my doc. I have an autoimmune disease which is currently in remission, and a host of other issues, but nothing major. Every diet under the sun I've tried. But I don't have documented with the doc's office at my highest BMI for a year.