OH MY GOD MY SURGERY WAS APPROVED!

[V.V.V. 64]

You guys!! My surgery was approved without the six month supervised diet period!

So excited, I can't even describe! When the nurse told me I tried to be as civilized as possible, but I was exploding of happiness inside!!!

YAYYYYYY! Can't wait to find out the next step from here.

Read more about this on my blog: http://vvvgastricsleeveafterlife.blogspot.com/

Stay hopeful guys!!! XOXO

VVV

[April206 128]

Congrats! Got my approval last week and almost cried. I had completed the 6 month supervised but it was several years ago - insurance accepted it. Here's to seeing less of each other!

[woo woo 872]

Congrats, I took a peek at your blog, really cute!

[V.V.V. 64]

Thanks Woo woo! Blogging is definitely out of my comfort zone, but so was surgery so...

I am changing my life once and for all!!!

XO

[cchapman6 6]

Hi can I ask what insurance you have and what state? Also how long it took to be approved?

[V.V.V. 64]

Cchapman6 yes you may ask

It is Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, through PepsiCo.

Contrary to my doctor's office belief, it turns out that your employer has a lot to do with the procedures the insurance will cover.

For example BCBS premium plan of PepsiCo, might cover this surgery 90% without a 6 month pre-diet period, while BCBS of... Idk... Coca cola , covers it at the same percentage but with a mandatory 6 months.

Hope this helped!

[V.V.V. 64]

In fact before even finding out the details of my plan, my doctors office immediately made me 6 monthly appointments. I didn't think this was right, so I called and took matters into my own hands. I called my insurance and the first thing they asked was... What client does your insurance come from? I said PepsiCo and she said, oh, then yes, you DO NOT need a six month pre op diet. I communicated this to my docs office, they swore I was freaking insane, and didn't know my ass from my elbow in their business, I asked them to submit it anyways with all other requirements completed (primary doc recommendation, psychologist, nutritionist, endoscopy, etc.) and it was approved within four days... BOOM!

[cchapman6 6]

Did you get a chance to speak to the nurse directly? I've been calling but all they say is it's in review

[V.V.V. 64]

I did get a chance. Tell them that you would prefer I speak with her directly. Remember this service is something you or your spouse pay for, you're the customer

[cchapman6 6]

Thank you I will try that right now! They told me they only talk to providers so that's why I didn't push it

[30sunshine 5]

I completed a three month dietitian program, it was over the phone and they sent me a informative packet. I actually learned some really good tips and survival instructions for the pre and post op diet and recipes. There is a big difference btw seeing a bariatric dietitian than a typical dietitian or weight loss consultant. This will be a drastic change in your diet unlike any other weight loss challenge, so even if it is not required you might want to look into seeing a bariatric dietitian at least once so you can have the tools and resources to make it easiest for you. I am doing my preop liquid diet right now and it is a challenge, but do able my surgery is for july 23. Best wishes to you :-)