I went for 'THE CONSULT'

sherilynn · September 28, 2006

Well, not the actual consult with the surgeons, but the 'forum' they put together in a hotel ball room. There were probably about 40 of us; all ages, shapes, sizes. I have to say the team I saw, I was VERY impressed with them - but then again, that is their job; to 'sell' you on the surgeries. They geared it alot toward Bypass, not so much the Band...but I had alot of questions answered. They passed around an actual band, thought I'd hit the floor. I don't mind when I'm under anesthesia....lol - but keep that stuff away from me!

Anyway, I have to call my insurance at 8 a.m., as I got very specific instructions on what to ask them as far as coverage goes.

My dilema is this: My current 2006 insurance may not cover it. However, next month I can change my insurance for 2007 to a company that will definately (from what their insurance pro says) cover it in full. So, it may take a few more months than usual...but I'm willing to wait.

I can say that seeing the Bypass vs. Lap Band side by side and what surgeons had to say, etc....I was totally put off of Bypass. Luckily for me, I do not have any ailments b/c of my being over weight (other than elevated blood pressure). But I will - eventually as I get older. So that is where I am in this long long road!!! Have a great day...and I'll keep you posted as to what my insurance has to say!!!

PS: IT's ALMOST FRIDAY!!!!!!!!!

Alexandra · September 28, 2006

Hi Sherrilyn,

Congratulations on taking that first big step! It starts to seem a reality now, doesn't it? Good luck with everything!!

GayleTX · September 28, 2006

Even tho your insurance company will cover wls, they will still have a long list of criteria that you must meet in order for them to approve it. Be sure and get that list from them as soon as you get the coverage so you know what you are dealing with. With almost no co-morbidities, as in your case, it may not be easy. I don't mean to put a damper on your excitement, but felt you need to know that most ins. co's sure don't approve wls without a fight ..... or at least requiring we jump thru a lot of hoops (and hoop-jumping ain't too easy for a chubby girl!). Do hope it goes well for you and that it happens as quickly as possible, though......best wishes!!!

sherilynn · September 28, 2006

Hi Gayle,

Believe me…I'm ready to face the whole list of challenges to get approved. From what this team tells me, they are the ones who will jump through the hoops to help, and that was reassuring. I did call and find out it is an approved surgery - WITH 6 months of evaluation ahead of time. And I'm fine with that as well. That is with my current surgery. Being that I work for a major Pharma Company, we have GREAT insurance coverage choices. Next month I will choose to go to BC/BS or United Healthcare; both of which approve the surgery for my company WITHOUT 6 months requirements. We'll see…this is all just in the 'planning' stage. I need to read here some more, find out how folks are dealing after - and so forth.