So today I went for my first doctor's appointment to kick things off for the surgeon and starting my process. It went well and my doctor supported my choice in the surgery, as we have tried many things to aid my weight loss with little or no change. She started to put in the referral in the system and she was stopped because I had not done a 6 month monitored food plan (ie. Jenny Craig, Weight Watchers).

Now, my direction is the monitored food plan for 6 months. I am not sure what happens after that but I have to do this process. Any advice? How fast does the process go after the 6 month food plan? I am just in the dark on this process. Any suggestions on monitored food plans? Did you do the commercial plans or work with your medical offices plan? Any thoughts?

@@NikkiRX, first off, im so excited for you! I know that a weight loss program prior to seeking approval can be difficult. My insurance plan required a consecutive 12 month weight loss program. Fortunately i was able to use the online weight watchers program that I was currently subscribing to. I would call your insurance provider to inquire as to what is acceptable. My insurance plan also required that i register with a bariatric resource center and be assigned a nurse case manager. This individual was invaluable throughout the entire process. Once i was able to get the surgeons office to understand that I was able to use the weight watchers payment history to demonstrate that I've been following a weight loss program, it was not long. After the paperwork is submitted it take 2-6 weeks for approval. Things can move very fast at this point.

Hop this info. Helps! Id love to hear how thinks work out for you!

@ thank you for your support! It was veey helpful. I have joined weight watchers online and am starting this long process.

I have my first appointment on the 13th of November 2014. I'm glad I know what to expect. Do they charge to sign up with Weight Watchers?

@ thank you for your support! It was veey helpful. I have joined weight watchers online and am starting this long process.

Hello Letti1933, Good luck at your appt. Weight Watchers does charge a monthly fee. I am doing the online route which is $18.95 or so a month but around $45-50 month for the in person/meeting route. Check it out online, it will help you determine what route to take. Also Weight Watchers is not your only option, there are many different food monitoring programs.

I have my first appointment on the 13th of November 2014. I'm glad I know what to expect. Do they charge to sign up with Weight Watchers?

Good luck to you guys!

Thank you!!

SO...I got a surprise in the mail this past week. I got an authorization to speak with a surgeon!!! From the last time I spoke with my doctor, I would have to wait until I meet the requirements to see a surgeon. Super exciting! I have an upcoming appt this week for a 2 week weigh in for my food monitoring and to monitor the new medication that she put me on, Phentamine(not happy about that but wanted to eliminate any chance of denial from the insurance). We will see what happens this week at the appt. I will fill you in!!!