My surgery was scheduled for Monday, Jan 19. I went thru all the pre-op testing and thought everything was a go. I already received insurance approval. Started my liquid diet on Monday and it was going so well. Yesterday, I had a call from my PCP telling me that the hospital had faxed my EKG to her and wanted her to sign a cardiac clearance form, which she couldn't do since she is not a cardiologist. Now, I can't get in to see a cardiologist until next week, hence, surgery has to be postponed! Then the surgeons office called and said there was a problem with the insurance approval because the approval letter didn't specify the procedure or CPT being approved!! What a day! I know that it's for my own good, but it is so disappointing after being all psched up for the surgery. I am still waiting for the call definitely cancelling the surgery, but I don't see how anything else can happen!

Has anyone else had to have a cardiac clearance and what did it consist of? Stress test?

Sheila

Hi Sheila,

I am sorry to hear of your delay. I wish I could offer some advise on the cardiology sign-off, but I haven't had that experience... although if your PCP was the one who performed the EKG and said it was normal the sign-off is probably nothing more than having a Cadiologist (expert) review and agree.

Regarding the insurance approval... I have a fear that the same thing might happen to me. I am pre-band with surgery scheduled for 2/3 and recently on the Spotlight Health board I saw some posts about the proper "code" for Lap-Band... well this is not the code that is on my insurance approval, so I am very scared that something might stand in my way. My pre-op is next Wednesday, but I am afraid to even ask. I have a code for unlisted laparoscopy.

I hope things work out for you, please keep us updated. My thoughts are with you for a quick turnaround and a new surgery date!

Take Care,