Help with insurance

My PCP is not very familar with lapband, but I talked to her about it and she thought I would be the perfect canidate. So I asked her to write a letter to my insurance to get me approved. She write a sweet little letter and gives it to me.....okay! The letter was maybe 4 sentences. I don't know what to do and I don't think she does either. So what do I need to do to get approved. Should I let the surgeon try and get me approved. I just don't know how it works.

First, contact your insurance company and get a copy of your bariatric policy (mine directed me on how to print it offline, or they'll mail or fax it to you). Make sure you meet ALL the requirements so you don't have to backtrack. Contact your surgeon's office (if you haven't already done this then sign up for a seminar or a consult with the surgeon) and ask for a sample letter from a PCP to insurance (I went to 3 hospital seminars and they each gave out a sample to give to your PCP...mine hade done this many times, so they had their own form letter and knew what to include). It should address your insurance requirements directly (ie. if you need a BMI above 40, then make sure your current weight and exact BMI are in the letter). I found that the person at my surgeon's office who deals with all the insurance companies was the most help...she knew everything I needed for my specific insurance. Send me a PM if you get stuck, and good luck! -BG