apeters

BBK: Congratulations on your success! Your photos are amazing! Any special tips you'd share? How long did the weight loss take? Thanks in advance for any information. ALP

I've been involved with Sparrow's program for a few years now and one of the things that has impressed me from the beginning was the quality of the staff. From the desk staff to the nurses to the doctors, I've had a great experience. When I decided to pursue the surgery, I couldn't imagine going somewhere else. My visit with Dr. Yenemula just cinched the deal, he spent over 30 minutes talking to me and answering all of my questions. I appreciate the fact that Sparrow is the program that will be with me throughout the process (in fact, they told me they will follow me for at least 5 years within the program for evaluation, etc.): being affiliated with a hospital gives me comfort that I will always have someplace to go with any questions or concerns 10 or 20 years down the road. The 4 week pre-op & 4 week post-op programming, attending the meetings each week and having the chance to ask questions of people who have had the surgery is part of the preparation. I've read that there is a medical benefit to losing a little weight before the surgery to shrink the liver (reduces surgery risk) and I don't mind a kickstart either. With my insurance plan, I will be paying my % no matter where I get it done. My portion will probably be $2500-3000, my best guess at this point. I'm in this for the long haul so whatever I need to do, I will. Sorry for the long post. Can you tell that I've had a lot of time to think about this? In the end, you need to do what is best for you but I would encourage you to talk to Sparrow staff if you have any concerns at all. Best to you....

I have BCBS of MI too and am in my 4th week waiting for approval. I have one slight variance from their stated guidelines on the website (and from a phone conversation with one of their reps) so my information was submitted for pre-approval. I read in an earlier post that BCBS states that they don't "pre-approve" but that's what I'm waiting on and I'm working the paperwork through the doctor's office and BCBS. If I had met all of the criteria, I'd have a surgery date already. I do hope to have one soon!

I understand about the frustration. From my experience with the process and with your pre-approval, I would think that as soon as you complete your evaluation and meet with Dr. Yenemula, you'll probably get your date 4 weeks out. Have you used the Optifast products before?

I'm going through SWMC too. I finished all of the pre-authorization requirements and now I'm just waiting on insurance approval. I have BCBS and the staff warned me that it might take a while. It's been a month so I hope to get an answer soon. Last I heard they were scheduling surgeries mid to late February so depending on your insurance situation, once you complete the 4 week pre-op diet, you'll be set! Best of luck to you, I hope it's smooth sailing!