Called the insurnace today...

[ShirleyJ84 19]

Well, I am on my way to getting my surgery. I have my first consultation on the 29th of August with my surgeon (I am excited). So I contacted my insurance company today and they told me that I needed a form from my doctor stating that it is medically necessary for me to get the surgery.

But here is the kicker, I was told by the represenative I spoke with that the documentation can be filled out by my endocrinologist. This sounds a little weird because it seems like everyone else needs it from their primary doctor. Should I get both just to cover my bases? It will be hard to get in to see the primary doctor (my old doc moved so now I have to go to another).

Thanks for reading my rant!!

[line-dancer 810]

_{Just call your PCP and speak to the nurse she'll take care of that and fax it into your insurance and the surgeon.}

[starqueen714 7]

I think you should get both just in case you need it

[ShirleyJ84 19]

I am in the process of doing both. I went to my endocrinologists office and now I'm waiting at my primary doctor's office to speak with the nurse. I'm hoping that this is a painless processes. I have been waiting to long for this.

Thank you for the advice

[PrettyThick1 1,860]

I didn't have to go through the hassle, True Results only contacted my PCP and that satisfied BCBS.

[Cwalband 215]

If you feel like you would be taking a chance by not getting both, then don't do it. I did a lot of stressing and running around during my mandated 6 month visits before surgery an in the end it paid off! I only ended up needing one from my PCP and I was able to just go through the nurse and she had him type something up and they sent it to me, pretty easy. You are doing great so far and I'm excited for you! Can't wait to hear more about your journey! : D

[ShirleyJ84 19]

Well, after sitting in my doctor's office for almost a hour I finally came out of there with something that states "due to patients obesity and BMI of 50.78 please evaulate for bariatric surgery". I am not sure if that is going to work or not.

But on a better note I did realize that ever since my primary doctor left the practice earlier this year I am no longer comfortable going to this practice. It is time to change doctors.

[NJDad 173]

My PCP didn't agree with me getting LapBand surgery. It wasn't just me, he is against anyone having it. My insurance company didn't require a letter from my PCP, just a "doctor", so my surgeon wrote the letter.

I saw my PCP doctor a few weeks ago, and 50 pounds lighter. He said he was impressed, but would have been more impressed if I did it without surgery. However, after he said that, he said that he was happy it is working for me, and that we now had to keep me on the straight and narrow. "And no more Pepsi.....ever". Yes, he knows me quite well.