I am trying to begin this process...

What should I do first?

I looked up my insurance's requirements to have the lap band. So far, I fall into those requirements. However, it states that I need to have a written letter from a doctor. I found a list of doctors that are covered from my insurance to do this procedure. Do I make an appointment with one these "approved" doctors or an outside doctor? I guess I am hesitant but I am scared to get denied from a doctor that is related to my insurance. What should I do??

any replies are greatly appreciated :]

I needed two letters- one from my primary care physician (PCP) and one from my surgeon. The surgeon gave me a form that I gave to my PCP and that satisfied the requirement.

My PCP was great about it, but my surgical practice does work closely two PCPs that specialize in obesity so if I ran into a problem, I would have switched to one of them.

If you don't have a PCP already, I'd start with an in-network surgical practice and ask them to refer you to a PCP. Then make sure that Dr. is also in network.

You can also call your insurance company and ask them to refer you to a PCP that specializes in or has a special interest in obesity.

Good luck to you!

kagead

so i went straight to the surgeon and they are handeling all of the paperwork for me :] i have to have a few tests done such as a cardiac clearance and UGI...along witht he nutritionist appt and psych eval.

thanks for all the advice :]

I'd start by going to an approved surgeon's informational seminar.

The surgeon will have, on staff, an insurance specialist who will be able to navigate ALL of the insurance requirements for you.

My insurance required a letter--and the surgeon provided it, along with all the other necessary documents.

If your insurance requires something from someone else, your surgeon's office will be able to acquire that, or give you instructions to do so.

So, attend a seminar (or two, or three---see which surgeon you like the best). Then let them give you the guidance they specialize in offering.

Good luck!