Hello, I'm new to this. I just got my referral and I hope I will be attending the orientation at Richmond Kaiser soon. I was wondering if kaiser makes you attend the options class? How long is the whole process? Any advise is appreciated.

I'm from Redding and choose Enloe in Chico. The process all depends on insurance and the Dr. Requirements. Standard for most is the seminar, meeting with a counselor, nutritionist and the Dr several times. Mine include, for a fee, and is not optional a after counseling and support group. I have Anthem/blue cross. It took me about 2.5 months but I have a friend whose insurance requires 6 months of Dr supervised dieting. Good luck.

Thank you! I hope it doesn't take 6months.

I have cigna. I got my referral from my pcp in November of 2012. I was just sleeved 3 weeks ago. Yup, it took 9 months. But it flew by. I had to have all sorts of testing done along with 6 consecutive months of doctor supervised weight and exercise appointments. During this time I was able to learn so much about the process and procedure. Time flew by but I think I was much better prepared than some who jump into this decision blind with little to no expectations other than losing weight.

If you read enough of the posting here many people fight for their right to have this procedure done and this can take months or years. Those of us that want to succeed will keep fighting until we get approved and or save enough $ or get the financing to get this done. This is not a light decision to be made and it takes time to wrap your head around all of the life changes that have to be made before going under the knife.

If you truly want this then embrace the waiting period to get a jump start on this wonderful journey.