So I had talked to my doctor about the sleeve and suggested we try the referral process, we called Tri Care and they shot us down even before the Dr wrote the referral. 1. They still don't cover the sleeve 2. I would have to gain at least another 50 pound or have a obesity related medical condition (which I don't, but am 105 pounds over weight) we were also told I did not even meet the requirements for the other 2 procedures either. So my question is since it appears that I am going to self pay do baratric surgeons have such strict rules to have the procedure done? Also what are some suggestions to finding a surgeon to do the procedure? I have seen several people going to Mexico to have it done, and while I like saving money I am still kinda leaning toward to having it down here in Texas. Thanks for any suggestions you may all have!!!

Melissa

Is it easier to go to Mexico than to find your nearest MTF?I am just curious because if you have Tri Care they cover it at an MTF (reason why is complicated) The Bariatric Clinic at the MTF here in San Antonio is a Self Referral Clinic.You come here for the seminar and you get your checklist and you can complete some of the items on your checklist(like 3 mos NUT) wherever you live...I met a girl at the Seminar that drives from Oklahoma.According to the information I received on August 1st.You can qualify if you have BMI over 40 with no co morbidities and you can also qualify with a BMI 35-40 with only 1 co morbidity like hypertention,diabetes or sleep apnea(new change ).I hope this helps

Here is the link for the MTF near me...http://www.bamc.amed...gery/bariatric/

Yes, it is easier for me, although I do appreciate the advice and I know all about the MTF route as opposed to Tricare. I live in Illinois and there are no MTF's that I know of within driving distance that either do VSG or would allow me to drive for treatment. I was treated very rudely when I did call one MTF that was within 4 hours because I heard they were doing VSG. I was told they wouldn't treat me because I was too far away and that they had stopped doing VSG anyway. I am to the point where I know I qualify (39 BMI and hypertension), I've been through all of the testing (spent $800 of my own money because Tricare wouldn't pay), and then my surgeon's office submitted my weight AFTER I lost the weight they wanted when I told them that I wouldn't qualify with that weight (for a lap-band I didn't want anyway). I can fly to San Diego, get picked up and driven to Tijuana, get the surgery and be home in 5 days...no appointments, no support groups, no calling rude people at MTFs.

Don't get me wrong, I am thrilled to know that some MTFs are doing the VSG, but it doesn't help people who don't live close enough and it kind of sucks that it's not an across-the-board decision. I'm pretty excited about my decision because I know this is going to happen. I have my date, I have cash in hand, and I'm ready to go!