Please allow myself to introme duce

richj · October 5, 2008

No, I'm not drunk.

This is my first post. I just finished a "Doctor monitored 6 month diet and exercise program" that my insurance required for the lap band procedure. The documents are now with the surgeon's office and they are sending in to my insurance this week.

I am scared that insurance won't cover me. I have been working at this for so long, I tried once before when I was with Kaiser (don't get me started there) and they turned me down.

Since then I have gained 30 pounds (BMI 46 now) , been diagnosed with severe obstructive sleep apnea (Don't you just love CPAP machines), asthma, hypertension, and back and knee problems.

Ok, AM I SICK ENOUGH NOW?!!!!

This time it isn't with Kaiser, but I know how healthcare bureaucracies work (I work in one) - and even though I am certain, my doctor is certain, and everybody I know is certain that I am a perfect candidate for this surgery, I am worried that some stupid technicality will disqualify or delay me.

If you have read this far, you have a better attention span than I do. Thanks for your attention. I'll keep you posted.

meschultz · October 6, 2008

Good Luck with your insurance. I hope your approval comes quickly.. Just keep believing and working on the process.. I work in healthcare also and my insurance company made it easy to have the band done.. So you just never know.. Take care and keep us posted

MissBS · October 6, 2008

Good luck to you!!! It sounds like you are a perfect candidate for this procedure and that you have done your part - I will keep my fingers crossed that your insurance company quickly approves you for surgery. Keep a positive attitude and keep smiling. Again.... good luck and do keep us posted!!! Becky

mymiserys · October 6, 2008

I had my first appointment with my surgeon on July 21st. He said I was a good candidate. My primary care Dr. agreed, my psychologist concured with him, had all my referral letters in by August 5th. My insurance approved me on August 15th. I only did a week pre-op diet and had surgery on Sept. 3rd. I couldn't believe it happened that fast. I had no other health problems other than arthritis and high blood pressure. I was so surprised. This is my first post although I come here everyday and see if I'm "normal" like everyone else. Well, as normal as I can be. Thanks to all for being here.