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Psychological Assessment

Nicie

By Nicie, in Gastric Plication Surgery Forum

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Nicie    9

Nicie
Posted

Did anyone have to take the MMPI test to satisfy their insurance requirements for the psychological assessment? I can not get a straight answer from BCBS. They said the doctors office knows the rules and qualifications for the procedure to be approved.

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Ginger Snaps    1,323

Ginger Snaps
Posted

I have Anthem BCBS... I didn't have to have that test, just a visit with a psychiatrist. I see a psych regularly and he did the evaluation. He just had a form (looked like one he has created himself) and asked me a bunch of questions, mostly about my health history and what I had tried in the past to do to lose weight. Only took about 20 minutes. Lots of people have different experiences.

I think it may depend on the doctor you see and what they feel is necessary. In my case, I've seen this doctor for 8 years, so I'd say he knows my mental health status pretty well. If it had been my first time to see him, he might have wanted to do more extensive testing.

So, it may be more at the doctor level to decide what you have to do rather than a specific insurance requirement. They want the doctor to do whatever he/she feels is necessary to clear you for the surgery.

Best wishes!

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relief57    53

relief57
Posted

My doctor gave me referrals for the psych exam. The one I chose did the MMPI in addition to two depression scale inventories and a sit down interview. It took about two hours. My brother had lap band surgery as well it only took him 30 minutes. It should have been the other way around :D .

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BigGirlPanties    957

BigGirlPanties
Posted

I have BCBS and I had to do that as well...no biggie...but it is time consuming...

good luck

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ChristyAZ    87

ChristyAZ
Posted

I have BCBS as well .... annnnd I did the psych test ...... 250+ questions if I remember right ...... I had to laugh at some of them but it was simple and over fairly quick .......

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Nicie    9

Nicie
Posted

Thank you to all who responded! I really appreciate the info. I went to a group meeting tonight and was told they had to take the MMPI test too. Some thought it was silly and a waste of time but it is required by the doctor, so they complied.

I will be eligible for the operation in June but I am getting more anxious each day. Some say the bypass is better; others say the sleeve. Right now I am so confused. I've lost 15 lbs. so far and am wondering if I should just keep up what I am doing and forget about the surgery for now.

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Nicie    9

Nicie
Posted

I completed the psych exam and interview. It was truly a waste of time! All requirements are now completed. I have made a decision and I am going with the sleeve. Hopefully, by the end of June I will be scheduled for the procedure.

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