Similar circumstance anyone?

sniggle · June 19, 2007

I am in the process of approval for the Lapband Procedure (BCBS PPO of Michigan). Referral criteria has been completed on my part just waiting for approval and hopefully contact from the Barix center in Yipsilanti shortly there after.

My question is... I've not heard/read any threads from anyone with circumstances similar to mine. I have a BMI of 37 with 80 or so pounds to lose but because of hypertension, sleep apnea and family history of severe diabetes and cardio problems. I've researched this for a long time and went for two different consultations (different docs & location)before deciding that this is the tool I need to be successful in my weightloss efforts. Is there anyone out there like me?

diggity · June 19, 2007

Yes, I have a BMI of 36 and have 85 lbs to lose. Did you have any problems with insurance?

sniggle · June 19, 2007

Thanks for responding. At the consult Dr. Schram and his office staff told me several times that I wouldn't have a problem with insurance as did both my family doc and psych. I'm just waiting to hear for myself. I don't want to get my hopes up to high because I've also read about the diappointment if/should it not go through. I'm hoping it won't take a long time - I will keep you posted. Where is it you will be having the surgery Diggity?

anonemouse · June 19, 2007

My BMI isn't much higher than yours, and I was approved easily. As long as you have the co-morbidities, I don't see any problem with you being approved.

sniggle · June 19, 2007

Do you mind my asking where you had your surgery?

anonemouse · June 19, 2007

I haven't had it yet. I am scheduled to have it on July 3rd at St. Francis Hospital in Memphis, TN. My surgeon is Dr. Virginia McGrath-Weaver.

diggity · June 19, 2007

I still haven't had the consult. i will have it June 27th. I would be having it with Dr. Spivak in Houston Texas. Not sure which facility.

bigsexy · June 20, 2007

I am in the process of approval for the Lapband Procedure (BCBS PPO of Michigan). Referral criteria has been completed on my part just waiting for approval and hopefully contact from the Barix center in Yipsilanti shortly there after.
My question is... I've not heard/read any threads from anyone with circumstances similar to mine. I have a BMI of 37 with 80 or so pounds to lose but because of hypertension, sleep apnea and family history of severe diabetes and cardio problems. I've researched this for a long time and went for two different consultations (different docs & location)before deciding that this is the tool I need to be successful in my weightloss efforts. Is there anyone out there like me?

I have BCBS PPO of New Jersey and they approve lower than 40 bmi patients if they have 2 or more comobidities. I think there wont be a problem. I used to live in Ann Arbor before Pfizer transfered my wife out to CT. Man I miss it there.

faithmd · June 20, 2007

Isn't A2 the best? But at least you guys got out before Pfizer closed the A2 facility. (In the process now.)

To the OP, there is a great thread around here for lower BMI bandsters, check it out.

Sweety · June 20, 2007

i Too Have A Bmi Of 37 With About 80lbs. To Lose. I Am Also Diabetic With A Family History Of Diabetes, Cancer, And Heart Disease. I Am Awaiting Approval As Well. Doc Says There Should Be No Problem At All With Getting Approved. He Said They Were Expecting Approval Within 2 Weeks. I Have Bcbs Of Ohio-ppo

bigsexy · June 20, 2007

Isn't A2 the best? But at least you guys got out before Pfizer closed the A2 facility. (In the process now.)
To the OP, there is a great thread around here for lower BMI bandsters, check it out.

Yes A2 is the best!!! So many friends there that we left behind both in and out of pfizer - although most of the people I know who were let go did quite well for themselves. Sometimes i wish we were given a package.

Oh how i miss the Grizzley Peak and Bells in Kalamazoo

sorry for the ann arbor hyjack