When I started looking into this procedure I thought this could really be the thing for me. It's the waiting for the ball to roll that is so frustrating.

I was looking at Dr. Deol site and it said they took BCN...I was SOOOO happy.

I called first thing on Monday and was told that BCN does not accept this procedure..

Now I work for a managing agent for BCBS and BCN so I spoke with my boss, who is absolutely wonderful. They are trying to get this to work. I had to get the procedure code and diagnosis code and give it to the head of the department.

The wait is driving me crazy, I wish I had the $$$ to just go and get it done!

I read about all the experiences and can't wait to add mine, if it ever happens!

Thanks for sharing and listening...This site has helped me focus on what I need to do..

I feel better venting with people who understand what I am going through.

Hopefully I will hear some good news this week...Keep you fingers crossed, I know I am!

Baileymb

Good luck Baily!

We are here for you... I hope everything goes your way.

Best Wishes,

Thanks for you thoughts, but things aren't getting any better.

The place where I work says that BCN does cover it and the surgeon's office says it doesn't! Even if they do, my doctor is hesitant to write a refferal because she said that BCN does not cover it....

They also say if I change ins. now they might not accept it anyway because it would be a prexisting condition...

I am getting a little fed up with Ins companies!

I am about ready to just find a way to finance it myself!

Any input would be great!

Thanks!

Baileym

Hi Baileymb,

Now, that just sounds ridiculous. Why would your doctor be opposed to trying??? What is the hard of putting in the referral and seeing what happens? Does this doctor just wish to not waste his/her time?

I have experience with the rollercoaster you are going through and happily it worked out in the end. My suggestion would be not to give up and don't let you doctor out of this one! If you employer says that it is covered, then the doctor should at least try on your behalf... Heck, to see you lose weight and get healthy... you doctor should be willing to help with an appeal if necessary.

I hope it all works out, just don't give up!

Well, Things are looking up!

I will be switching Ins. companies real soon and hope to make an App. with Dr. Deol to get this ball rolling!

How long is the average time from 1st appointment to post op??

Would love to hear everyone's/anyones time frame!

Thanks for your kind words, I will be hanging in there until I become a bandster!!

Thanks again!

Baileym

Hey Baileym,

Good luck with all of this! I also work in insurance, and my boss too was a big help. It's nice to have a little of an inside track, isn't it? At least we're not afraid to complain, like normal civilians might be.

As for the time frame, that all depends on your surgeon's schedule. All of the preop testing could probably be done in a couple of weeks, and from that point it's just a matter of the doctor's appointment book. I've heard of waits lasting months, but where I am the band operations come around pretty quick because they're outpatient surgery and are short procedures.

Keep us posted!

Well... My new ins. takes eff. on Monday and I will be calling Dr. Deol's office to make an appointment for mid march(hopefully) and hopefully be on my way to my new life!

I have heard some real noce stuff about her and her office, but I would love anyone else's input about her!

Can't wait!!

Baileym:D