Just Joined Private Health, What Next?

[mellie1 0]

Hi, I've been doing extensive research in lap band and have looked at the pros and cons that comes with it.

Ive read a few threads on this site and I love the fact that you guys are all so supportive and don't judge others who chose to go through this whether it may be for the wrong or right reasons.

With me, I'm 26 yrs old and live in Melbourne Australia. I'm 159cm and weigh 78kgs= BMI 31. so I'm not drastically obese but def need to lose more than 16kgs to be in a healthy range.

I have been overweight for most of my childhood growing up. I feel like I need to make a change in my life. It's been a few years now that I have been reading up on lap band but it was only today where I took my first step in joining a private health fund so I can be covered in 12 months time IF I decide to go ahead with banding.

I guess my first question is, 'what next?' I don't have a clue what I should do next. I dont have an actual doctor where i normally go to etc so, do I need to have a history with a Dr that knows my struggle in losing weight? Do I need to see anyone else before I even consider getting lap band? Or do I just wait off the 12 month waiting period and then make an appt with a Dr to refer me to a lap band specialist?

Your thoughts/advice would be great! Please help!

Thanks

[Shelleymb 75]

I'm not quite sure how your insurance plan works, but it sound like you should try to find a doctor now so that while you are waiting the 12 months you can be getting all the test ready and such. Because here in America it seems like most people who go through their insurance companies have to prove that they have struggled with weight loss and then spend so many months attempting to lose weight before they are approved.