Hi everyone!

I'm in the home stretch of the VSG pre-approval process and the worry that Aetna will deny me has started to creep in. I'm getting a bit panicky!

I started the process with a 41 BMI. No co-morbidities.

My 2013 and 2014 BMI was 38 (I was on Diet2Go in 2014 and Nutrisystem in 2013).

I've provided the surgical coordinator with BMI records for 2013 and 2014, but she doesn't believe they are needed. I'm not so sure. More so, I'm worried that not having a 40 BMI in 2014 and 2013 will cost me surgical approval.

Has anyone had experience with Aetna in 2015? Whatever experience you can share would be helpful.

Thanks in advance!

The two year weight history is no longer required.

Really? Aetna sent me a form when I began to inquire about the coverage for the surgery, this was in late April/early May. The form listed that a 2 year weight history is required. My initial surgeon appt was in late May and the patient coordinator asked for it.

In my experience having my PCP document my need to lose weight over several consecutive years was a good thing. However, his letter to Aetna also needed to indicate the same. My BMI fluctuated between a 38 up to 41 at time of this process. I was approved with no problem. My WL surgeons office knew how to put all docs together to meet their approval and they made sure I followed their checklist . From what I see on this site, that's the biggest part. I even gained 3lbs during my weight management period but ended with a net loss of 1lb submitted to insurance. Try not to stress.

Amazing how you here so much different information. I was told that I could not gain any weight because I would be denied. I don't have to lose weight during my pre op phase, I just have to maintain and not gain.

The two year weight history is no longer required.

Really? Aetna sent me a form when I began to inquire about the coverage for the surgery, this was in late April/early May. The form listed that a 2 year weight history is required. My initial surgeon appt was in late May and the patient coordinator asked for it.

Some people got approved without the two year weight history

Look at this thread

http://BariatricPal.com/index.php?/topic/344120-For-Aetna-people

All my "stuff" was submitted yesterday. Advocate said they run about two weeks for approval in her experience. Here's hoping its sooner! Starting preop diet Monday as surgeon gave me a date under the assumption I would be approved.

I was approved in less than 24 hours ! I didn't have two year weight history.

No two year history here.