My Journey Has Begun. First Steps Taken. Feeling Motivated

[Rovobay 920]

May 22nd I found a PCP and met with her. We had a good appointment where we discussed my weight and goals. At the end of the appointment she has made the decision to refer me to a local weight loss center which is covered by my insurance. The next day I went to get blood work. I am so happy to get the ball rolling and wage war against the bulging belly! The following are requirements for approval for insurance coverage.

Benefits for the surgical treatment of morbid obesity, performed on an inpatient or outpatient basis, are subject to the pre-surgical requirements listed below. The member must meet all requirements.

− Diagnosis of morbid obesity (as defined on page 63) for a period of 2 years prior to surgery

− Participation in a medically supervised weight loss program, including nutritional counseling, for at least 3 months prior to the date of surgery. (Note: Benefits are not available for commercial weight loss programs; see page 42 for our coverage of nutritional counseling services.)

− Pre-operative nutritional assessment and nutritional counseling about pre- and post-operative nutrition, eating, and exercise

− Evidence that attempts at weight loss in the 1 year period prior to surgery have been ineffective

− Psychological clearance of the member’s ability to understand and adhere to the pre- and post-operative program, based on a psychological assessment performed by a licensed professional mental health practitioner (see page 95 for our payment levels for mental health services)

− Member has not smoked in the 6 months prior to surgery

− Member has not been treated for substance abuse for 1 year prior to surgery and there is no evidence of substance abuse during the 1-year period prior to surgery

I will be having my surgery at Legacy Weight and Diabetes Institute.

http://www.legacyhealth.org/health-services-and-information/health-services/for-adults-a-z/weight-and-diabetes-institute/surgery.aspx

I still have no idea what surgery will be best for me, but from as much as I have read and heard, my personal choice would be gastric sleeve. Time will tell! just happy to start my journey and it truly began on this site. your support and information has been amazing. Thank you