Ok I'm new and really don't know where to start. I first began this process in July and finally today 4/6/11 I got my approval for my surgeon consultation. My appointment is 4/21/11 and I'm very excited but have no idea what to expect or whats next. Can anyone tell me what usually takes place at this meeting and is that when I'll receive my date. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

I had already been to a seminar by my doctor so I had already selected the sleeve.

My first appointment my surgeon asked my history in terms of the things I had tried for losing weight, and various questions about my lifestyle, why I want the surgery, etc. I was weighed and measured so my BMI could be officially logged.

My doctor talked a lot about what it takes to succeed and also taught me some things about why carbs are so important (lack of them) in the weight loss process. He told me I was a good candidate for my surgery and then told me everything I needed to do to qualify.

He printed a lost with all the tests, etc. and as my doctor he put in referrals for all of them. I then had a list and when I went home hit the ground running scheduling anything and everything I could

Prior to my appointment I call my insurance to make sure the sleeve was covered, and also what their requirement was independent of what my doctors might be. I was fortunate in that my insurance requires only that I complete my doctors requirements. Yours may vary. Many insurance companies require a six month diet with monthly appointments. SOme do not cover the sleeve-make sure yours does!

My appointment was on 2/16 and I really pushed my way , through tons of roadblocks that meant delays, such that I completed my requirements last Friday. My surgery will be some time in the next six weeks, depending on whether I can get a date that works with my life.

Thank you so much for all the info. Yeah I'm not sure of my insurance will cover as I have blue cross california. I will keep my fingers crossed and keep you posted, thanks again.

Thank you so much for all the info. Yeah I'm not sure of my insurance will cover as I have blue cross california. I will keep my fingers crossed and keep you posted, thanks again.

According to my doctor- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of CA are the best so hopefully that will be true for you! I do know some employers exclude it (dumb!) Good lucks!

I have bcbs CA, and I had to appeal, things may have changed after the new year. Give them a call, and just be prepared to fight for what you know is best for you.

Trust me I'll do whatever is necessary I really want the sleeve, not really feeling the lap band or other surgeries.

Welcome to the group onetopmason! There is a wealth of knowledge on this forum if you have any questions you can post or even try searching your topic when you are in the forum section. You would be amazed what information is already stored on the site.

You have started your journey to a healthier new you. Congratulations!

Welcome and good luck!!!

I have Federal BC/BS - they follow what's applicable in each state. I had to appeal the initial denial last September. I got approved in November. The insurance coordinator at my surgeons that many insurance companies have begun including the sleeve in their covered weight loss surgeries. In fact, Virginia BC/BS began covering the sleeve 2 months after they granted my approval on appeal.

You sound confident and I don't think anything will stop your success! Can't wait to hear good news from you!

Thank you and I appreciate your support.

Hi!

I have my first appointment with my surgeon on April 21 also, I can't wait!

I have already completed all of the required tests and consultations, but my 6 month supervised diet won't be done until the end of June. From what my surgeons office said (all are different), they will submit it to insurance once my file is complete, then I can schedule my surgery date once I have insurance approval. Like I said though, they all do it a little different.

Good luck at your appointment, and make sure to let us know how it goes!

Kristina

Thanks Kristina for that info. wow the same date, please keep us posted as I will do the same.

Good luck to you on your journey...I will praying for you through your process. Personally, I have been going several doctors for clearences since October and my six months of supervision. Finally on Tuesday I got my surgery date. It was alot of hard work but I am 17 days away. What I am doing now is staying busy and healthy. I going to try to stay home alot so I do not catch cold.....If you need anything please do not hesitate to ask.

Connie

Hello! I have BC/BS in Virginia also. I live in Williamsburg, VA. I am thinking about having this done. How does the insurance part work? Thank you.

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Welcome and good luck!!!

I have Federal BC/BS - they follow what's applicable in each state. I had to appeal the initial denial last September. I got approved in November. The insurance coordinator at my surgeons that many insurance companies have begun including the sleeve in their covered weight loss surgeries. In fact, Virginia BC/BS began covering the sleeve 2 months after they granted my approval on appeal.

You sound confident and I don't think anything will stop your success! Can't wait to hear good news from you!

Congrats and good luck! I am sure you will do great