photo 1 Posted January 30, 2008 Hi, all! I've been investigating this surgery for a little while now, and wondering if anyone out there has opinions on whether the risk of surgery is worth the benefit for a BMI in the 35-40 range. I don't have any co-morbidities. I'm about 15 pounds away from a BMI of 40, which is the minimum insurance companies usually cover without other "severe" illnesses associated with obesity. Thoughts? Thanks! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
NukeChik 1 Posted January 30, 2008 You are about where I was when I got banded (Jan 7). My insurance did not cover my band I was self-pay. I think there is a huge variance in what insurance companies approve. Mine was very specific over 40 bmi you're covered. 35-40 you had to have either obstructive sleep apnea, Type II diabetes, or a first line relative that had died of coronary artery disease prior to age 45 (I think??). Anyways, when I went to the seminar the surgeon that gave the seminar and ultimately did my surgery made the statement "Its time to invest in yourself". I knew that I wasn't sick at the time, but it was in my not too distant future. So I did it. Never looked back. I'm very happy so far but I'm brand new. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
SuzanneG 1 Posted January 31, 2008 My BMI was 35.1 when I went for my consult appointment. BCBS turned me down and said unless I had sleep apnea, heart disease, or lunch disease, I didn't qualify. I assembled an appeal package including letters from every one of my doctors, gyn, gp, gastro, pediatris, and surgeon, all stating that weight loss would correct/benefit my condition that they treat me for. I also wrote 2 letters myself, 1 medical, 1 emotional. Meanwhile, I ate like there was no tomorrow and by the time I submitted my package my BMI was 36.7. Based on my letters and my larger BMI, they approved me. I'm happy with my decision. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
