Hello all,

I'm a noob. I want this surgery, rather I need it. I'm not sure how things are done elsewhere but around here, the surgeon or practice has you go to an open information session first. I am going to one next Tuesday. After I get the ball rolling on getting my first appointment with the doctor and such I'm just wondering on how much waiting time I am looking at.

I know that all insurances work differently so I'm wondering if anyone has had experience with Empire BCBS PPO of NY? Do they make you do the 6 month diet with the doctor first? One of my colleagues had another bariatric procedure and her approval was fast, around 30 days. But I'm wondering if the sleeve would be different?

Anyway, I would appreciate any insight or thoughts!

Thanks so much.

Im on Empire BCBS but under the EPO plan. I was not required to do the 6 month medically supervised diet, but i did have a barrage of tests and doctor's appointments to go through to qualify for the surgery. I'm happy to announce that I started my vsg pursuit at the end of June, and was sleeved on October 18th.

Go to the Empire BCBS website and look for the information concerning bariatric surgery. It's all listed there in black and white, the requirements and qualifications you'll need to be approved.

I don't know if there is much of a difference in the PPO and EPO plan other than price, but I can tell you that Empire BCBS was fast with their approval after my paperwork was submitted. I got my approval response from them in less than a week's time.

Good luck!

Thanks so much for your input and congrats on your surgery! I did go to the website and found the main policy which outlines generally what is needed. I think that is what you mean?

I registered for another seminar and the coordinator did say my insurance was prettty good so that is hopeful.

Yes! The main policy outlines all the necessary requirements. Wishing you nothing but success during your WLS pursuit and this joyous holiday!