I started investigating the lab band procedure back the 1st of May. I contacted my insurance company to get all the requirements, etc. I knew that I qualified so I made the appt. with the Dr. They got all the required info for the insurance company and the insurance company sent a letter to the doctor and my stating that the procedure had been approved.

She wanted me to do a stress test before they would agree to do the surgery. I had the nuclear stress test because of my bad knees and failed the stress test. The cardio doc wouldn't release me to have surgery until I had a heart cath to rule out any heart problems. I was sure glad that he insisted because I did have 90% blockage in the LAD which is one of the main arteries. I had a stent put in and then he cleared me for surgery. That was the middle of June. My surgery was scheduled for 8/10. On 8/8 at 2:15 in the afternoon my doc. office calls and said the insurance company was denying my surgery. Needless to say, we were all just blown away. Finally after many phone calls and conversations they went ahead and approved the surgery.

For anyone that has any problems with insurance companies,,, just remember the squeeky wheel gets the grease.

I did have the surgery and several things didn't go like I thought they should and will take it up with my doctor, but all in all, I think I will do fine.

Congrats on your stent and your banding. Best wishes for a full and speedy recovery.

Myra