Hi everybody. I just come from the first appointment with Dr. Veninga. My insurance does not cover the Lap band so I will be paying out of pocket for the surgery. Pretty much everything is included in Dr. Veninga fee but not the Psychological consultation. The staff did recommend two different doctors but they do not accept my insurance, so I am looking. Dr. Veninga said I can pick any Psychologist I want, his only requirement is that the Dr. is knowledgeable of the Lapband. Could some people around the DFW area list some names so I can check with the insurance? I need to get the evaluation done before I can get the surgery scheduled.

Thank you

Luci

Hi Luci. I was banded by Dr. Veninga as well. I'm not sure what names you were given for Psychologist. I used Dr. Michele Steigleder. Barbara gave me the card and the appointment was quick and painless. Good luck and keep us posted on your progress. I have been very happy with Dr. Veninga and his entire staff and I hope everything goes smoothly for you as well.

Hi Dolphin,

Barbara also gave me Dr. Stingleder's card but she is not in my insurance's list of providers. Was she in your insurance or did you pay for the consultation? If you pay, do you mind telling me how much was it? I am checking with the insurance company to find out how much they cover for out of network mental health.

I realy like Dr. Veninga too. He is so down to earth... He explains everything and he makes me feel very comfortable. I need to get the psych consult done so I can schedule the surgery soon.

Thank you for your help

Luci

You might try calling your insurance and get them to send you a list of the Dr.'s that are covered. From there you could find out which ones work with lap band patients. Kind of the hard way though.

Also, have you call your surgeon back and asked for more names?

I used Dr. Michele Steigleder as well. She is so nice...you might even be able to call her, explain your situation and find out if she has some recommendations.

Good luck to you!

I spoke with Dr. Steingleder over the phone and she was really nice. I alrady gave her a call today and left a message. The way I see it is, I am already in debt for the surgery, a bit more is not going to hurt that much. Might as well get the therapist I want... Now I just have to convince Hubby about it

Thank you

Luci