If you stay above the min. BMI, is it still possible to lose too much?

[Band_Groupie 3]

I was reading through all the seminar info. I received yesterday so I could compile info. for a post on the seminars I attended. One of them, Magee, gave out a paper that makes a sweeping statement for everyone (no matter the insurance). "Your weight must be identical, or less at month six, when compared to month one. Many insurers discourage even modest variations in weight throughout the six months. Do your best to keep your weight constant each month (or even a modest loss of 1-2 pounds a month). We have found that even weight increases of a pound or two have been grounds for insurance denial."

I've read here not to go below the minimum BMI (35 or 40 depending on the cat.), but are they saying try not to lose much? I weighed in "heavy" at my initial visit (long story- you'll have to read my blog here from Mon. this week) and I was hoping I wouldn't have to drink/wear that much for the next visit. I could lose 5 pounds easy this month just by what I was wearing extra (no I didn't wear weights). My goal was about 11 pounds over the 6 mo. Is this considered too much for insurance...what the heck is an OK amout? Is the pre-op diet included in your 6 mo.? What if I lose even more on the pre-op diet? :tongue2:

Edited November 14, 2008 by Band_Groupie

[MTBiker 1]

That seems like strange advice, but perhaps there is some basis for it at some insurance companies. I was told through my clinic that the BMI at the beginning of the process is what is important, and is what is used to determine if you qualify medically. They want to see a supervised weight loss plan during the 6 months, and want to see that you can in fact lose weight, meaning you'll be able to stick to a new way of managing food. If you were the same or higher at the end of 6 months, I would think that would be more of an incentive to deny you than if you had lost some weight. I lost 40 lbs in the 6 months leading up to my surgery, so I am proof that they won't automatically deny you if the BMI falls.

[ShiraSimcha 0]

I got that same information from Magee BG. I start my classes tomorrow night so I'll find out the scoop for you!

SS

[Band_Groupie 3]

SS- Thanks!!!! I'm curious which ins. they were talking about. I wonder what Highmark is looking for (big loss or just a few lbs.)? So confusing...