After almost 2 years of flip flopping about getting the surgery I have decided to concentrate on getting some answers from the VA. Bariatric surgery at the VA is like a secret club that won't even let you in the door. I have done online research but come up with different facts everywhere I look. I did find this.

http://www.healthquality.va.gov/obesity/obe06_final1.pdf

WEIGHT LOSS
For adults with a BMI greater than or equal to 40 kg/m2 there is good evidence from numerous high
quality systematic reviews that bariatric surgery is the only effective therapy for promoting clinically
significant weight loss (ECRI, 2005; Maggard et al., 2005; Shekelle et al., 2004).

Morbidly obese patients (i.e., those with BMI greater than 40) do not usually achieve substantial weight
loss as a result of lifestyle modifications and drug therapy. Only bariatric surgery has been
demonstrated to consistently result in profound and long-term weight loss for the morbidly obese.

One Dr I talked to refused to believe what the VA actually said. They have no problem spending money on a treatment that they themselves say doesn't work but refuse to give me any information on a treatment that does. All I can confirm is that I have to be in the MOVE program for 6 months. They will not discuss any other requirements at this time.

What sort of surgery are you inquiring about?

I'm trying to get bariatric surgery of some sort. Not sure which type yet. Hope to talk to a Dr about my options.

6 to 12 month program is common.

I just had lapband surgery this week, but even though I'm a veteran, we have tricare because my hubby is retired AF. The whole process took 3 months. Good luck with your journey!