Randi

Shackdog, Thanks for the offer, I make take you up on it if I'm unable to gather enough information. I have a lot to the literature. What I'm looking for is any unique situations that my PCM could use to make a case for me to the insurance company.

Sisterfunkhaus, My insurance company currently believes the bypass is the gold standard. I get the impression their not ready to commit on a full scale to the lap-band. I think they see it as, "no moving parts" is a better cost savings for them. Thanks for the input.

Leatha G, I think I'm gonna borrow that piece about the blood thinners. Thanks!

I'm trying to justify to my insurance company why the lap-band is the better option for me over the bypass. If anyone knows of strong medical reasons for choosing the lap-band, I would appreciate you sharing them with me.

Divamom, I need your help. I was told today that Tricare is approving Lap-Banding on a case-by-case basis. You mentioned in a previous post that your PCM is located at Wilford Hall. What I would like to do is have my PCM at Randolph contact your PCM to find out how to get Tricare to approve the Lapband for me. Would you mind providing me the name of your PCM at Wilford Hall who was able to get the lap-band approved for you?

DivaMom, When you say your lap-band surgery is being done by SW Medical, are you talking about Southwest Bariatrics in Austin? If so, who is your surgeon?

The IRS Publication 502 covers tax deduction for weight loss surgery. The publication is available at www.irs.gov

I was aware that Wilford Hall Medical Center, San Antonio, Texas is trying to get it's Lap Band program underway this year, but I didn't know there were already two Military Treatment Facilities (MTFs) currently performing Lap Banding. Which two MTFs are you referring to?:eek:

Christina,I was on www.obesityhelp.com website the other day and the WISH Center has an add out there for the lap band. I think the cost was $10,700. However, there may be some other charges not included in the price.Randi