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I have Tricare standard (North). If I look in the benefits section online, it said I had to complete a six month diet. But when I went to the doctor seminar, they said I didn't. I didn't want to take a chance of going through the process and getting to approval time for them (insurance) to say "now you need a 6 month diet". so i went ahead and saw my GP doctor monthly as I waited on my first appointment with the surgeon, through all the testing and dietian, psych appointments....that way when it was submitted for approval I already had complted 4 months of the diet. Worst case senerio I would be delayed 2 months. All this being said, tricare didn't require it and the doctors office was actually correct. I was worried because I am only 36 BMI but I do have 2 comorbidities.----I would suggest you call the insurance person at the surgeons office. They work with the insurance companies so much, they usually know what is expected.

I am a Tricare Prime Member. My BMI is 36 currently and my doctor submitted my case for approval on Tuesday. When I came home yesturday I checked the tricare website hoping to see that the request has been entering in the system. I was very suprised to see that I had already been approved. It was less than 24 hours. I only have high blood pressure. So mine was very quick. I hope that this helps you feel a little better about your chances.