Hello

Misty · November 23, 2003

Any other Minnesotans around these days? For those banded, how long did it take from 1st consult to surgery? Were you covered by insurance? How long have you been banded? How are things going?

Just want to get to know a few people, and have a few questions answered at the same time.

TraciLJ · November 24, 2003

Hey Misty!

I check out this board every so often. I've just begun the journey to become a "bandster". I attended an informational meeting in Crosby (Minnesota Center for Minimally Invasive Surgery at Central Lakes/Cuyuna Range Medical Center), but will be working with Dr. Peter Billing in Moose Lake. I've talked to a couple of other folks using Dr. Billing and with schedules (for pre-op tests & evals) and insurance approval cooperating you may be able to get surgery in as little as 4 - 6 weeks.

I've checked with my insurer and have been told that they do cover WLS, but with preauthorization to prove medical necessity.

I have my first official meeting with the doc in early December, but have been very impressed with his staff thus far.

Good luck to you!

--Traci

Misty · November 24, 2003

Wow that's moving quickly. How great!

Good luck to you.

mel22 · November 26, 2003

Hi Misty-

I'm also still pre-band, but hopefully that will change soon! I'm also going to use Dr. Billing in Moose Lake. Last week I had most of my pre-op tests done- just one more to go. I have BC/BS insurance and have been told that it will be covered, as long as I meet the medically necessary criteria.

Where do you live? Have you decided on a surgeon yet? Have you gone to any info meetings? I went to the meeting at Abbot last February-and have been on their waiting list since than. I got tired of waiting in October, so I went to the meeting at Methodist Hospital and than met with the doctor in Moose Lake. I choose Moose Lake because for me it is easier to drive to, and is a much smaller program. Everytime I call with a question- I get an answer almost right away.

Anyway, good luck!

Melissa

Misty · November 26, 2003

Hi Melissa,

I have a surgeon in mind. My husband was laid off and is starting a new job. Once I know what our new insurance plan is I'll go from there. I'd prefer to use Park Nicollet because it's closer and the wait isn't as long. But if insurance doesn't pan out I'll go to Mexico. It's good to hear BC/BS covers things now. They weren't covering it last year. Now I'm hopeful that whatever plan we're one covers it now too.