I have my last visit in August...

baylorjai · July 25, 2008

Okay...I have returned...we have been "properly" doing my doctor's visits for the last 5 months and next month will be my last visit and time to schedule my surgery. I know I've been marinating over this for the last 7 months and going through the process, but when Dr. Guth said next month we'll send off your stuff (again) and we'll be scheduling your surgery...there was two emotions...1) WooHoo...it's about time (2) Oh wow here we are...we're really going to do this aren't we. I feel like we've been talking about climbing a mountain for so long to do this amazing journey down the mountain and I'm finally about to the top and I'm in a little panic. Anyone felt like this? :thumbup:

kfgates · July 25, 2008

When you say said it off "again" did you get denied the first time?? Did you have to appeal to your insurance company?? I am preparing myself for a denial so I am doing all I can to get ready for an appeal.....what did you do different the second time that you did not do the first?? Thanks for any help you can offer. Kimberly

baylorjai · July 25, 2008

With Cigna you have to have 6 months of documented doctors appointments specifically about your weight. I had those appointments but they were not clearly documented as much as Cigna wanted and there was really no way of getting around it. So at Dr. Rivas office they have a doctor who you literally go see once a month to be weighed and talk about your weight and progress. It has been great being in their office and getting to know all their staff and support programs. You might have already told me this but have you already sent off your paperwork and are you attempting to go through insurance or self-pay?

kfgates · July 25, 2008

I knew about the 6 month PSWLP so I started last month with my PCP. I am just hoping he is making his notes to meet Cigna's criteria. I have not sent off my paperwork as of yet. I just have my first consult with the surgeon on Tuesday, but I NEED to prepare to put my mind at ease. The one thing holding me back is my low BMI. I certainly have the co-mobidities ie: Gerd, Stress incontinence, fallen arches (I even had surgery on one foot already) high cholesterol, elevated blood pressure, herniated discs in my back, and severe joint pain in my knees. I just don't know if this will be enough for Cigna...it will be the only thing holding me back. Getting ready for an appeal is probably a self fulfilling proficy, but at least I will be ready. Thanks again. Kimberly

baylorjai · July 25, 2008

I think you should be fine. You probably will have to do the 6 month visits...I know Cigna is a stickler for that. But with your co-morbidities you should be fine with your BMI. My BMI is only 37.4 and besides gerd and joint problems, that's all I have to go on. I need to loose a little over 100 lbs. Good luck Kimberly! Keep me posted it's nice to hear from someone who is on a similar path to mine. :thumbup:

jenbug · July 25, 2008

Yes I felt the same way. I also have had to wait 6months. I started my journey Feb 9th and we scheduled my surgery for August 11. I don't know if I am approved but I am moving forward - regardless. enough is enough. I am glad I did take the time to have to think about it. I have a whole different opinion now than I did back in February. I am starting my pre-op diet Monday. But I just need to take the giant leap and do this for me. I started stressing over the pre-op diet this week. I just feel like I need to eat because I am about to change my ways. Hard to break old habits

baylorjai · July 25, 2008

Jenbug:

I'm so glad to hear someone else is having some of these thoughts! Since Dr. Guth said that on Wednesday, it's like I'm on death row and I need to eat every last bad meal that I can get in my mouth. ARGH!!! I would love to hear how you are doing with the 2 week pre-op diet...I know I'm going to have to do the same...and just in general have a buddy during this phase.