Annie

From what I gather from UHC, it's covered 100%, other than my normal co-pays. So I'm not worried about that part. I'd like to know if there are any others here with a lower BMI that had any troubles getting approved for the surgery by UHC? Those of you who got approved fairly easy, what are your weights/co-morbidities, etc? Cool Brz, I too worry that my PCP won't "approve" of the surgery, we've talked about it in the past, and she didn't seem to much of an advocate for that kind of thing...I am hoping to get this all approved without having to ask her...isn't that terrible, she's going to know eventually, but It's just another thing to make me feel like a failure ya know?? And changing docs isn't a choice for me. I know, it's not right....

I'm in the process of getting all my ducks in a row to have this surgery, so I've called UHC 4 times in the past 2 weeks, just to make sure I have everything I need to get this approved. I have UHC choice, a BMI of 37, and HBP. Each of the times I have called, I've got a slightly different answer. :mad: At first I felt positive about this, that I would qualify without any problems, but each time I talk to someone else there, it sounds more bleak...I meet the criteria, but I still worry that it won't go through....this waiting and wondering is awful! Can you tell I'm a little impatient?

I really appreciate it. I thought I'd done my homework, I've been looking into this for a long time. When I first inquired with the surgeons office, and my insurance, it seemed to be simple, but now as I'm digging a little deeper, I'm concerned that my insurance will deny me, after I've spent that non refundable fee.... Thanks again for all the advice, it's really helping me through this process.

If you don't mind me asking, what was your starting weight? I've started this process with Wash U Weight managment program, Dr. Eagon, but upon reviewing all of the paper work there is a $550 fee that is not refundable if your insurance denies you. I've called UHC and they say it is a covered benifit, however I am worried that they will still deny my surgery. My BMI is 37, but I am on meds for HBP, so I'm hoping it will all be alright, but $550 is alot of money to throw out the window if they choose not to approve it. I wonder if I should check into the New Start Program before going any farther... Thanks for your reply, and and all help is very much appreciated!

:help: I was looking into a surgeon named J. Christopher Eagon, in St. Louis MO. at Washington University Hospital. I have found a few items on line, and have seen some interviews he's done on the local news, but I'm looking to see if anyone has had any personal experiences with him. Thanks in advance for any and all help!

Thanks Sunshine! It's UHC, a federal employee plan, and 100% is covered. My BMI is only 37....gees, ONLY 37 is still huge...anyway, I'm concerned cause the only other comorbidity i have is HBP. I have a hx of depression, and my weights steadily gone up over the past 15 yrs, and a family history of diabetes and heart disease, so I'm hoping that's enough, and I don't have to jump through any hoops. I pray that it goes quick and smoothly.

:help: Anyone out there have experiences with any facilities/doctors in the St Louis area? Also, wanting to hear about experiences with United Health Care. Thanks!

Hello everyone. I'm new to the forum today. I've been lurking for sometime, and I decided today I would post. :success1: My story is like so many others here, I've tried so many things over the yrs to lose the weight, lost it, gained it back, only to repeat the cycle, and disapoint myself for not being able to control myself. I've been reading about Lapband surgery for quite some time, and I finally decided that I'm going to do it! Hopefully the insurance company agrees.:nervous It is a covered benefit as long as I meet the requirements, and according to them, and the surgeon I've picked out, I do. So I sent in my first packet of info to the surgeon, and I pray that this process goes smoothly and quickly!!! I get excited, and can't wait to get it done, especially after reading some of the posts here, it's very encouraging to read that I'm not alone, even though I feel like it sometimes. I can't wait to get the old me back. The one that isn't afraid to run into someone from their past, and not be recognized because of all the weight I've put on through the yrs. Well, thanks for listening. Good luck to you all...and me too!