another newbie

minpinmom · July 12, 2006

Hello all!

I have been reading this site for a few weeks now. I have gotten so far as to get the referral from my PCM - awaiting authorization through my insurance (Tricare) You guys have given me so much support - lol, without you knowing it. I just wanted to say "thank you".

My referral is to Felix Spiegel. After reading so much, I know a lot of you have been banded by him. It has been great to hear your perspectives.

Hopefully I can tell you all soon that I have my authorization. I soooo want to be a part of the "banded crowd" :-)

DaDrillSgtsWife · July 12, 2006

hi minpinmom

I know what you mean about lbt. this sit has been such a blessing to me as well. i wish you well in dealing with tricare. they can be such jerks when it comes to approving lap band . you would think they would be all on board for a surgery that less expensive and safer. i am prayerful that a change is soon to come. i am pretty much at a stand still until tricare comes to their senses for the time being.

be blessed

keep me posted as you continue your journey

paula · July 12, 2006

Hi Wendy! WELCOME to LBT.

Spiegel was my surgeon as well. I think he's a great surgeon - not much for personality though. Just make sure YOU keep good contact with your insurance company. Seems like things get lost getting from his office to the insurance comp which results in a *v e r y* slow approval process.

Good luck!

Angel_Archer · July 12, 2006

Welcome Wendy. I'm new to the site also and I'm waiting for insurance to come through...UHC. I called them yesterday and they expect to have an answer by Friday!! I heard that it can help to call and find out who your case worker is and make sure they know who you are and then they can put a voice to the paperwork they are looking at. Worth a shot...

minpinmom · July 13, 2006

Thank you guys . . . I have good news . . . I think, online I show that I have been approved to see Spiegel for 6 visits - I hope that means that the surgery is approved. I am going to his seminar/consult next week - at least I know that will be paid for.

I have been floating all day today.

:-)

3loves · July 13, 2006

Hi Wendy & welcome to LBT!! :welcome: It sounds like you have some exciting things going on. I hope you are correct and you were approved. The lapband is the best thing I've ever done for myself. I've only been banded a short time, but I wouldn't change a thing.

Hope you stay in touch and keep us posted. Be sure to read, read, and read some more. There is so much info here that can help you every step of the way. It's nice to meet you and again, welcome to this wonderful community!!!

:welcomeB: