New and Questions...

[DesiLoo 3]

Hey everyone! My name is Desiree, I am 25 almost 26. Current weight is 280 at a short 4 ft 11 inches.

I currently have no insurance but will be getting some through work and it covers weightloss surgery. I don't know the specifics yet.

That being said I was wondering where I start in this process.

Once I get the insurance do I just go find a surgeon or do I go to a regular doctor and get a referral.

Do I contact the insurance company right away?

Feeling a little lost but would like to get started asap.

Thanks!

[mollz007 60]

Hi and welcome! When you get your insurance, call the number on the card and ask about bariatric surgery. They will tell you things like what types of surgery are covered, what tests they require if any, etc. Every insurance compant is different in what they require before they approve you. They may have a list of doctors they want you to choose from, or you might be able to choose your own.

[RickM 1,747]

It depends upon the type of insurance that you get - some will require a referral from the primary care doc, and some do not.

If you don't need a referral, then your doc may recommend a bariatric surgeon he is familiar with and you can start there, but there is no reason to stop there - most family docs know little about bariatrics beyond what it presented to them in seminars from the bariatric department of their associated hospital, and they may or may not be any good. It is time for you to do your own research - about the various procedures available (if you haven't already,) and surgeons in your area. Go to some of their seminars and learn about them, what they offer and see who you are comfortable with.

[terrydumont46 1,954]

after you are insured go to a seminar. look for one on the internet. I went to 2 different ones checking out the doctors and staff involved at the clinics. usually at these seminars they ask you for your insurance information. and than in the next few days they call you to say they verified your insurance. now you can make your choice as to what doctor you want to go with. keep in mind, location, after care, reputation and how many of the surgeries they have done. good luck. and be sure you research carefully all wls. each one is special to a certain person especially the reasons of wls. don't take preparing yourself with education on your own. really scan the internet and web sites like this one to be as prepared as you can be. good luck on your journey

[DesiLoo 3]

Thank you all for the help. I really appreciate it. Its overwhelming to know where to start.

[moonlitestarbrite 902]

you may want to look for a bariatric center of excellence in your area. that would be a good place to start.

[jtickle 295]

Since your insurance is new, you may want to make sure you are not under a pre-existing condition clause.

[DesiLoo 3]

Hmmm I guess I didn't think about a pre existing clause. I hope not. I go in Monday to sign up for the insurance.

I'm nervous because it is the main reason why I am getting insurance through work is the possibility of having the surgery. It is BCBS.

I want to be healthy due to a family history if diabetes, high bp and I suffer from fertility issues (PCOS) which is causing me to really heavy in the front.

[moonlitestarbrite 902]

pre existing clauses were done away with by the affordable care act.

[DesiLoo 3]

pre existing clauses were done away with by the affordable care act.

Thank u for the clarification!