Jo Ann Stidman

I spoke to Bariatric Surgery Insurance Specialist today and she told me she was very familiar with Fed BC/BS. Her info to me was 35 BMI-40 with health related obesity issue such as diabetics II, sleep apnea. If 40+ considered morbidly obese so different criteria. She said I could come in they could see if I qualify (5 hr drive when roads are not snow covered). There is a 3 month surgery prep including 3month nutritionist/psych visit. I think I am borderline to being 35BMI/with possible diabetic II (runs in my family) with sleep apnea….but of course have to be tested. Another statement the office made to me is if I go to MX to have this procedure, that my BC/BS might cover me if I occur complications, esp if I was never approved. It started me to thinking…..what if????

I just found this site….was considering going to Mexico to have the sleeve procedure & see where you guys are working on getting Fed BC/BS to cover this in the U.S. Do you know what the criteria for the approval with insurance to pay? I was just informed by a Facebook buddy (who doesn't have federal BC/BS) the following statement: Federal ins I believe covers it. My BC/Bs would not but it takes about 6 months prior to surgery but you have to see psychiatrist for 6 months. Is this true see a psychiatrist for 6 months? I know about 8 yrs ago a former co-worker was only about 60 lbs overweight with a couple of other weight related health issues and her Gastric procedure was paid for by Federal. I would appreciate any info given.