I have read that some people get denied and have to go appeal with insurance... What makes insurance deny someone? It sounding like some insurances are being very nit picky...

Each insurance company has their own prerequisites that their insured have to meet. It's typically a BMI of 35 and higher with 2 or more co-morbitities (high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, ect...) or a BMI of 40 or higher. Also, some require a 3 or 6 month recorded diet recorded by your PCP or a dietitian before they will sign off. They're all different and deny/approve based on your ability to meet their requirements. It's best to always check with your insurance coordinator before you start your journey.

First step is to see if your insurance covers it at all. I had insurance for many years through United Airlines that specifically excluded it from the policy. Also check on state requirements. I live in Maryland so my Carefirst BCBS uses the state guidelines which is pretty much what SugarFreeMe listed above. I had a 6 month supervised diet (or two nonconcurrent 3 month diet) requirement within the last 2 years and a psychological exam.

Each insurance company has their own prerequisites that their insured have to meet. It's typically a BMI of 35 and higher with 2 or more co-morbitities (high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, ect...) or a BMI of 40 or higher. Also, some require a 3 or 6 month recorded diet recorded by your PCP or a dietitian before they will sign off. They're all different and deny/approve based on your ability to meet their requirements. It's best to always check with your insurance coordinator before you start your journey.

Mine also required documented weight loss w/failure to keep the weight off.