61 and Kaisier help

[HappyHomeCC 2]

I have a dear friend that is 61 and Kaiser insurance. She is in need of losing a lot of weight . She has had hip replacement surgery, has apnea, asthma, gosh, just too many things. I told her I was going to have a lapband put in, she thinks that because I am 42 of course I get approved for mine but for herself she thinks they may deem her too old.

Anyone here deal with Kaiser in their 60s?

thanks

[PATCHELTON 0]

I can't speak for Kaiser, as I have Blue Choice, but I was banded at 63. I had no trouble getting approved. I did have to do a 6 month diet per insurance requirements, and they required a BMI of 40 or more with 100 pounds overweight, or a BMI of 35-39 with one or more co-morbities (sleep apnea, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, reflux, joint arthritis). I think there are a few more but I have or had everything on the list I gave you. I have lost 110 pounds, and no longer taking one of two blood pressure meds, and I am off of both cholesterol meds, reflux med, and CPAP for sleep apnea. I have pain med for arthritis,but I don't need it much, since taking the weight off has made my knees feel better.

Also I have gone from womens size 22 (or 2XL) to misses size 10 (small pants and small to medium tops). That was a bonus. Now if I can find a plastic surgeon who wants to work cheap . . .

[HappyHomeCC 2]

I think they would do it for her... but over the time we have been talking about it she is not willing to make changes and doesn't know how I can do it.... she supports me but doesn't think it is possible for her ;o( makes me really sad, I love her dearly and I am afraid she will meet an early demise. I hope she will change her viewpoint. perhaps after I have surgery and she sees how it goes with me. Her husband works for Kaiser in one of the offices. He is in great health.