Pre-op medically supervised diet & weight question

[Dream4tc 192]

My insurance used to require 3 months of physician supervised diet, but now they require 5 months. Usually when we start this process, we get weighed with a beginning weight. Then we get weighed each month under supervision. When we get to the end, which weight and BMI do they submit to insurance company? What happens if you lose weight to the point where your BMI is no longer 40? Can anyone help with this answer?

[Cheri_j 117]

Almost all doctors use your starting weight and BMI to submit to the Insurance companies.

[Daisee68 2,493]

I understand it to be starting weight also; however, I have also read not to go under 40 BMI (or 35 with co-morbidities). I would ask the surgeon but I would bet they are going to submit whichever one they think will get you approved. Great weight loss pre-op by the way!! Keep up the good work!

[dannieeliza 29]

They go by your starting weight . Your BMI can go below 40. They only look at your starting weight and that you lost what they wanted during the supervised diet

[Dream4tc 192]

Thank you so much for all of your responses! It was very helpful I kinda thought they went by starting, but wasn't sure. Is there a set weight they require people to lose? I didn't ha e a requirement with my previous surgery and I don't have a requirement with this one either. I did set a goal of 5 pounds each month. That may be low, but I don't want to set unattainable or unrealistic goals since I currently have no restriction and relying on diet and exercise only. It is so much harder to lose weight at age 41 versus age 20!!!! Lol. Thankyou everyone, this forum is the best!!!

[toasty 371]

Yeah, and losing weight at 49 is harder than 41! There's always a silver lining.

[dannieeliza 29]

I was required to lose 15 lbs during my 6 month diet

[Dream4tc 192]

@@toasty I hear you! Lol I have heard that same thing. @@dannieeliza 15 pounds is very realistic. Congrats! I think the ins company just wants to see if a person can be compliant and show progress.

[dannieeliza 29]

Yes. I lost 25. I actually wasn't mad I had to do it. You should have to prove your really want it as its an entire life change

[newmebithebypass 713]

im not required to lose weight per my insurance but my program wants me to lose a half pound to two pounds a month