mahogany1177

Hello, I would start by looking at your insurance company's policy book which is usually available online and look under covered services. Your approval is based on proving medical necessity. Generally, with most insurance companies what they are looking for is a BMI 35 or higher, co-morbidities ie, hypertension, diabetes vascular disease, heart conditions, as well as health-related issues associated with obesity that thwarts your quality of living. Also you are required to generally have a psychological evaluation, a sleep study proving the sleep apnea which by the way can be viewed as a co-morbity as well when it is severe,but keep in mind if your sleep apnea is very bad you may have to be treated for that first to prove you will be fine to go under anesthesia. You are usually required to see a nutritionist, go on a medically surpervised diet and the time frame for that varies by insurance. Some insurance companies require you to quit smoking prior to surgery if that applies to you. Based on my experience with South Dakota Medicaid, you sound like a candidate to get approved. Just know this, you are likely to be denied the first time you submit and not because you are not a candidate either.Find out the basis for denial and re-submit. Do Not Be Discouraged! File an appeal immediately if this happens. When you have all the supporting documentation and have completed all of their requirements you should be persistent to get this life-changing procedure. It is your right to have a chance to live life abundantly and happily. I also had each of my doctors ie psychologist, neurologist, primary care physcian, write a letter of reccomendation and I submitted a handwritten letter describing my personal quality of life and the need for the surgery. But all of this will be in vain if your insurance company excludes bariatric surgery from its coverage ie Arizona AHCCCS ( AZ Medicaid as of October 1, 2011). I will be glad when our government will take obesity more serious and recognize it as a disease that needs to be treated and prevented. Good Luck & Best of Wishes Mahogany1177