A few weeks ago, my insurance company (Aetna) denied my claim, stating that the Bariatric Program in Portsmouth, NH was "out of network" and that my employer's plan does not not have a provision to cover out of network. I was really disappointed at first. All the work I put into attending appointments, support groups etc.

I found a surgeon in Portland, Maine that has begun to do lap banding - and she is "in network"! I had all my medical records faxed to them, and was told that I would not have too much work to do -- in fact, I was placed on a cancellation list, and today was told there is an opening to meet with the surgeon on Jan. 8th!! Yippee!! I am so happy that my efforts are finally going to pay off.

Please say a prayer for me that I will be able to schedule my procedure soon! I am hoping for sometime in April - preferrably during my son's Easter Vacation. We'll see.

Many thanks to all of you who had encouraging words for me. I really appreciate this forum!

Rachel

Hi Rachel, congratulations on seeing it through. I'm 53 and my band goes in 1/16. I can't wait.

By the way, my family and I love coastal Maine and New Hampshire. We spent our vacation in Maine last summer. Went to some of the usual coastal towns, which are fabulours, but the best part of all was our day of hiking and picnicing on Isle au Haut with our two doggies. Barely saw a soul all day. It was downright prehistoric. I'll never forget that day.

As it turns out that trip will be my Lobster Farewell Tour. But it was a worthy tour.

So anyway, congratulations on your new journey. See you on the forum.

Rachel, that is fantastic news. Best of luck to you with your surgery.

wonderful news!!!!

Hi Rachel

Congrats!! I had my band placed 11/27 by Dr. Wolfe's associate - it took about a year as a Maine resident with Aetna to get approval, in fact, my surgery was cancelled because of the delay on the part of Aetna to approve me. It seems they would much rather pay for the RNY than the band...made NO sense to me! Anyway, I have the band and absolutely NO regrets!! The staff at the bariatric clinic are very helpful (even when you think some of the stuff you have to do is stupid!) Only a few weeks ago did they receive accreditation as a "Center of Excellence!!" So have no fears, you will be well cared for!!!

Good luck!!