New to the Lap Band Journey :)

[Megbd 3]

Hello everyone! I'm slowly starting my lap band journey. I met with my PCP and she gave me a referral to see a surgeon. I'm going to my first seminar on May 14, then after that I can make a appointment to see the surgeon. I have a question that maybe (hopefully) you guys can help me answer... According to my insurance (anthem blue cross) I have no coverage of the bariatric surgery. But if the doctor sees it medically necessary my insurance will cover the surgery after I pay my deductible, as long as he writes a letter off medical necessity. Does anyone have any advice as to what I can say to help him help me with a letter? My BMI is 45 and I'm 100+ pounds overweight. Any advice would be greatly appreciated

[JACKIEO85 308]

Congratulations!! Do you also have the option of discussing ALL WLS OPTIONS? I ask because allot of Insurance carriers are going to ONCE in a lifetime coverage/no coverage on WLS. And it's good to view varied options if you only get one. Of course all WLS's have complications, but a few questions to ask, which has the best long term success, what is best for MY BMI, Can I accomplish the necessary goals. Find out about the surgeon and his staff BEFORE you need to see them for treatment, How many surgeries has he done and the different types, do they have a REGULAR support group? LB's are not permanent (no matter who says they are) Sleevers will tell you, you'll get restriction Like the BAND without the "stuck, Sliming, burping", episodes. Bi-pass you deal with Malabsorption issues..you see what I'm saying

Surgeon's are WELL aware of the information that an insurance comp. needs to allow coverage.

Some Insurances, not all require months of proven weight loss records or attempts, a psychological eval, Stress testing, Endoscopy tests. Besides being classified as Overweight, high BMI, some insurances also consider Co-Morbidities like: Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, High cholesterol issues of Medical necessity.

GOOD LUCK in whatever you decide~~~

[Megbd 3]

Thanks for the feedback... Do you have any advice or info about the 1st visit with the bariatric surgeon? What should I expect?

[Bandashoop 31]

Where are you doing your seminar at. I am also going to one on may 14th in warrensburg mo

[Megbd 3]

I'm doing my seminar in Orange, California

[JACKIEO85 308]

That 1st visit really depends on the Dr. I'd call the office and ask them what to expect, since NO Dr is the same. Personally, I WISH that they had some form of continuity in LB information. But that will never happen, and the LB will be gone and the surgeons will be OFF doing the "next" great WLS.(sorry ranting)

My first visit was to discuss what I expected from being banded, a seminar explaining the Band, eating protocol,fills, weight loss expectations, requirements and tests prior to having it, ( insurance hoops). I can't stress enough to find a GREAT bariatric surgeon first, do your research, find others that have the same one, question, question and ask more questions. HOPEFULLY it will save you stress later on.