What is the proper sequence of events before being approved?

[Bryn 3]

Sorry if this question has been asked/answered before

but I'm unaware of the sequence of events and how things happen.

Is someone generally approved for surgery after they do all the testing? (psych, sleep study, nutritional, etc) or are they approved and then do the tests?

another question which i know i should ask the doctor (but i'm in beginning stages and haven't met her yet) is if I had a sleep study done almost 2 years that diagnosed me as having sleep apnea, could they use that or would i have to get another one?

thanks in advance!

[sherun 1]

It probably depends on your insurance company.. I had to do all the testing first. First I attended a seminar to learn about the lap band, then I completed a psych eval, then submitted a letter from my GP, along with 2 years of weight records, I would submit your sleep study, but its possible your insurance would require an update. There is an insurance forum, you might be able to find someone with your same insurance company that could help you more. GOOD LUCK.. Just stick with it-- they will approve you

[brraaainnss 0]

It's a pretty simple process and the doctors team should let you know what you have to do.

First I called my insurance co. to make sure they covered me. Then I went to the seminar. Then I went to my PCP to get her to sign off that I was a good candidate. Then I had my consult with the surgeon. Then I did my psych eval and dietitian meeting. Now I'm just waiting for all those people to send in their paper work and for the insurance to do it's final approval.

[PrincessErin 64]

I'm right there with braaaaaaaaains. I called my insurance company and they cover it (with an over 40 BMI). I can't attend a seminar because I coach cheerleading and the seminars are on practice nights. I just called the facility I want to use and made an appointment with them. Right now, before they'll even schedule an appointment, I have to fax them my insurance cards and fill out some forms. Then, I'll get the appointment. Hopefully, it will be pretty painless and easy. We'll see.

[Bryn 3]

Thank you guys! I just researched my works healthcare plan and i discovered they do cover the surgery 100% if found medically necessary so that is good news to me. I will talk to my doctor more. Thanks!

[dar36 5]

This is how my process worked:

Determined that surgery was covered by insurance

Met with primary care provider.

Initial consultation with doctor.

Group seminar

Meeting with social worker and dietician

Medical evaluation to determine if other steps are needed

Two sleep studies and pulminary clearance

Cardiac clearance

Psychological clearance

Pre op physical

Pre admission bloodwork

Final meeting with surgeon for review

Surgery! I was banded on August 17. I started the process in March.

Best wishes to you along the way. Keep us posted.

[PuppyBandit 2]

My sleep study from a few years ago counted. Hope your's will as well

My signature shows all the steps I had to go through for my insurance (Cigna).

Good luck!

[PrincessErin 64]

I don't think my doctor realizes how much I hate waiting...

[crecia1975 4]

My sleep study from a few years ago counted. Hope your's will as well :cursing:

My signature shows all the steps I had to go through for my insurance (Cigna).

Good luck!

I saw your steps and see that Cigna approved you very quickly. I have seen other people, on this forum, who seem to have had the same fast approval with Cigna.

My paperwork was faxed to Cigna on 08/17 and they confirmed that they have it. I called today and it's still in "pending". Any tips on how to speed this up? Thank you.