Hello everyone my name is Dina. I am a newbie. I have been reading all of your post for about a month now, trying to get an idea of what I am about to go through. My journey began March 6th. I went to an info session.

I gave them my insurance information and the next day they called me to tell me that I an covered for the surgery. I have my first appointment with my surgeon and the nutritionist on the 30th. I am very excited and nervous at the same time. I'm not sure if I will have to go through the 6 months of supervised diet. She didn't say anything about it and I was so excited I forgot to ask.

So can anyone tell me what the process is and how long it takes? I have so many questions, but I'll save them for along the way.

What happens during the first visit with the surgeon and with the nutritionist?

My Dr. is Dr. Avera in Ocean Springs, MS.

what kind of insurance do you have? I have bcbs and had to do the 6 month diet.

My first visit was fairly simple. I saw the doctotr, nutritionist, physical therapist, and psychologist. It was a long day of appointments but it was great to get all of the info I needed. First I saw the doctor and he explained the surgery and talked to me about the benefits of it. Then the nutritionist explained what the sizes of food would be after surgery and explained the pre op diet. then I saw the physical therapist who showed me some exercises to firm things up so that after surgery I would have less trouble with loose skin. And then the psychologist talked to me about food addiction and also about having a support system through this.

If you have any other questions let me know

Good luck at your visit!!

I have BCBS of TX. My handbook states the following:

Benefits for Morbid Obesity--Benefits for Eligible Expenses incurred by Participant for the Medically Necessary treatment of Morbid Obesity will be provided on the same basis as for any other sickness.

This is all it say about Morbid Obesity. Do you think I will have to go through the 6 months of supervised diet. I hope not. I am so ready to have this surgery. I am so ready to be healthy.

Anyone else have BCBS of Texas? If so, any information you could share would be appreciated.

Thanks

Dina

Well I have bcbs IL and I'm pretty sure they have the same process an bcbs IL bought out bcbs tx a few years ago. You will more than likely have to do the supervised 6 month weight loss program. My advice is if you don't already have it start it now. You do have to attend the physicians office @ least once a month. FYI my process got delayed 6 months because I had to do the 6 month diet all over because I mentioned at one of my visits during the supervised weightloss, that I wasn't able to make it to the gym. It may seem like a lot, but don't get overwhelmed. It can be a smooth process if the correct steps are taken.

14 years working history as a medical insurance coordinator.

I have BCBS TX and I had to do the 6 month diet. No one knew that and I had all my other requirements done in December then this... Now I'm looking at a July surgery but oh we'll! Yes start your 6 month diet now!! Cuz it really is 7 visits because the first is considered a 'consult' it's not so bad though just go in for ten minutes an talk about it but yes don't mention anything in the appointments that you think might even have a chance at derailing your train!!!!

Good luck!