Hi All!

I have been looking into lapband for awhile now, was all convinced to go ahead, I qualify EXCEPT the dreaded 12 month supervised diet.

Well, I have been dieting under my doc supervision for 9 months now, (even tho he is totally opposed) and found out we will have to change our bcbs from the ppo to the standard care network, just wondering if anyone else has that plan and what their requirements are. We don't get our info until after the 1st of July, so I can't check.

I just hate not knowing!!

Hi Shelby,

If by standard you mean traditional/ppo then I can tell you I got ok'd for surgery no problem. Of course I have some co morbidities r/t my weight like htn, degenerative arthritis etc..Too bad your Doc is not supportive, mine is extremely supportive esp after seeing me struggle with weight related issues and dieting the past 20 yr.s he even wrote me a long letter of support a yr ago, then again this yr (I chickened out a yr ago)

I wouldn't expect too many problems with bcbs as long as it has been documented in your medical record the last 6 months about your diet & weight loss attempts.

Good Luck!

-Sara

Sara,

thanks for responding!

I am not exactly sure what type of plan this is going to be. I was just told it is called Standard Care Network, I believe it is also called Trust.

Instead of the PPO we used to have. I am almost hoping my current doc, which I have been seeing for about 9 years will not accept the new plan, which will finally make me find a new one. He did actually prescribe me Merida, which surprised me, so I have lost about 22 lbs in the 9 months. not alot, but I will take it!!

Hi Shelby,

I too have BCBS /PPO and had no problem getting approved. I know it is different from what you are describing though. Off hand I can't think of the website ( maybe obesityhelp.com) has a link that you can compare your insurance to others that have had it done here in MI. Or, maybe someone out there knows the website. I too have a PCP that was not in all in favor of the lap band. He just kept telling me to eat less....:heh:, I may be looking for a new PCP soon. I am going to be banded on 7/9.... and start my 2 week liquid diet tomorrow. Good Luck. I know it is frustrating.

Karen