I have federal BCBS and was wondering typically how long it takes for approval/disapproval? What are some reasons for being turned down??

They say 30 days, but mine took less than 2 days. From my research, it takes no more than 5 days. Their requirments are the most relaxed ones out there. Just meet the BMI, psych consult and nutri. eval and u are good to go. They are the best and I kid you not.

my wife and I were told the federal program didnt require the psych eval. its been over 2 weeks since our initial consulation. oh well, i guess we'll just have to wait.

I also have federal BCBS (basic). It was a requiremnt for me. I am not sure if different agencies or different states have different paramenters. However, from my research we pretty much have the same requirements. Why, don't u call the phone # on ur ins. card and verify what their requiremnts are.

All in all, they are one of the best in approving this procedure. Good Luck

My insurance was pending around December, which is why it took so long - everyone was trying to get in before the end of the year! Mine took well over 30 days to approve.

that is awesome... I have them as well, so I hope mine goes just as smooth!! :w00t: good luck!

I have Empire Blue. It took a little over a week to get approved.

I have Empire Blue. It took a little over a week to get approved.

I too have Empire BCBS and am awaiting approval. Just sent off late last week, so hoping it goes quickly. I was told by the insurance company that it could take 30-60 days to get a decision back, Initially was denied, but had to go through the 6 months of diet and nutrition and then submitted by doctor. Keeping my fingers crossed!! Hoping to get this show on the road soon!!! Good luck to everyone!

I have Empire Blue. It took a little over a week to get approved.

I too have empire BCBS and submitted for approval on monday and received approval on friday. Good luck to you :thumbup:

Band date 3-11-10

I work for the state and I have empire bcbs ppo so does that mean my insurance is government insurance?

I have Anthem BCBS and mine took about 3 working days for pre-approval (before the dr. visits were started)....and 6 working days for final approval (after all the required visits and paperwork was completed/submitted).

I agree with the other posters....BCBS has some of the least stringent requirements for surgery. I just needed a dietitian and psych visit......no 6 months of monitored diet and exercise like most require.

Good luck to you!

I too have anthem bcbs. They required very little and I had approval within 8 days. I was impressed with how smooth it took. I just had to meet the bmi, dietician and psych eval.