So I'm stressing! Just found out my cardiologist requires stress test to clear his patients for lap band its a 2 week process. My appointment is Oct 30.I have to have the lap band surgery done before the end of the year. I have BCBS Il and I'm flipping out thinking I'm not going to be approved in time... Anyone have words of hope

Why is it a 2 week process?

Since my heart attack over 5 years ago, I have a nuclear stress test done annually....takes 1/2 day...then the Dr. has to revue the results, (pictures) usually no later than the next day....but the EKG portions while you are on the treadmill, he is there on the spot reading as they are printed out....

But if the cardiologist knows this is fro pre-surgery screening, which is routine for them, then he can clear you the same day....

Edited October 29, 201411 yr by B-52

Well that's what I was originally told. I spoke with the doctor as I had my appointment and he said I wouldn't have to come back for follow up appointments and he would just send the letter to my doc if everything is ok. I have my stress test tomorrow and echo, I'm crossing my fingers everything works out quickly so I can have the surgery as planned ???? sorry I have been forever replying this. Thanks for your response.

Don't stress.....the Echo is actually easier and quicker than the Nuclear method.....

They do a echo on you while at rest...then put you on the treadmill and run you through the paces...at the peak, they will immediately do another echo....that's it...Finished. He/She can see the results right then and there as they are looking at the screen....you can ask right then "Am I then cleared for surgery?"

Then as you are getting ready to leave, you can politely ask the results get to your surgeon ASAP because they are waiting for them to wrap everything up.

Only reason 2 weeks, is the cardiologist to send the report out...but it should not take that long....