program fee

[carlak 59]

Nervous about not being able to get plication. My insurance will cover surgery but not the PROGRAM FEE. I asked what the program fee covers and was told for Facebook support group, one fill and reduced fee for dietician $35 per visit. Thoughts?? Comments??

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Did you find out why they stopped doing plication?

How much is the program fee?

[carlak 59]

when I FINALLY got approval I called to schedule the surgery. The nurse said "oh the hospital has us on a hiatus from doing plication" it scares me because I had to go thru hell to get the approval, my insurance pays for one a lifetime so I must get the most for my buck. The competition here in town is a center of excellance bariatrics and they charge NO program fee. the program fee here is $500.

[DELETE THIS ACCOUNT! 12,703]

when I FINALLY got approval I called to schedule the surgery. The nurse said "oh the hospital has us on a hiatus from doing plication" it scares me because I had to go thru hell to get the approval, my insurance pays for one a lifetime so I must get the most for my buck. The competition here in town is a center of excellance bariatrics and they charge NO program fee. the program fee here is $500.

As far at the plication, I really wouldn't worry about it. You can lose just as much without it as you can with it.

Now, as for the program fee.. $500 and that only includes ONE fill? Granted this is just my opinion, but I don't think it's worth $500. I would expect more fills, at least one dietician visit to be included, and a Facebook support group as "included" in a fee is kinda ridiculous.

Is the one charging the $500 fee a Center of Excellence? If not, honestly I'd go check out the competitor that is. At the end of the day, you have to choose the best surgeon, but it wouldn't hurt to check out all your options before making a decision. Just my opinion.

[carlak 59]

exactly how I was thinking. I really like the staff and would feel terrible if I liked dr 2 better since dr 1 helped me get approved

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exactly how I was thinking. I really like the staff and would feel terrible if I liked dr 2 better since dr 1 helped me get approved

No don't feel terrible. You have to do what is best for you, especially where your health is concerned. If you go see doctor 2 and still like doctor 1 best, great, stick with doctor 1. But if you find you like doctor 2 better, you owe it to yourself to turn your care over to doctor 2.

Good luck with your decision!

[carlak 59]

thank u for the support. have about 75 lbs to lose just afraid band alone wont be enough. Don't teally know how or when to get fills and whats the "green zone" people are talking about

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thank u for the support. have about 75 lbs to lose just afraid band alone wont be enough. Don't teally know how or when to get fills and whats the "green zone" people are talking about

I've lost 193 pounds without plication so believe me, you can totally lose 75 pounds with just the band. There are many, many others on here just like me who've lost considerable weight without plication, too.

Once you choose a doctor and start getting ready for surgery, you'll find out about fill schedule, the Green Zone, what and how much to eat, etc. It's all part of the process. And, don't be afraid to ask your doctor questions. A good doctor will take the time to answer them.

Best wishes

[carlak 59]

since u cant drink cokes what do you drink?? Im always thirsty

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since u cant drink cokes what do you drink?? Im always thirsty

Water or diet Lipton Green Tea, which is no calories or carbonation.

I used to drink tons of soda but I honestly don't even miss it.

[carlak 59]

Did you have to pay a program the