Hi everyone, I'm new and had my first "consult" with the Bariatric Doctor (not surgeon) back on September 14th. I was weighed in, filled out paperwork, she took my meds down on a list and sent me for an extensive blood work up. She then referred me for a Bone/Body scan which I did and I'm scheduled to meet the sleep apnea doc for an consult on 11/11. I am scheduled to meet the Nut, Exercise specialist and Dietician all on the same day (10/22). I see the Bariatric Doc again that day too. My question is - what BMI counts, and is sent to insurance in 6 month? The first on e on 9/14 or the next one on 10/22 when I meet all the new team and actually start me journey? The doc said even tho I met her on 9/14, technically my 6 month visits for ins purposes starts at the 10/22 appt. just curious cuz they told me not to start any diet until I see the NUT so I'm wondering should I eat hearty until 10/22 so I have. Higher BMI and increase my chance to be approved buy insurance? I have BCBS of Michigan and my BMI is 36.

Thank you all in advance for your insight.

I'm not sure how the guidlines work, but I'm in NY and if there aren't any serious medical reasons (other than obesity) your BMI has to be 40+ to qualify through ins.

Your visit isn't too far off so you won't gain enough to get you BMI to 40 by then.

Do your research on your benefits. Call multiple times and ask the same questions. Oddly not everyone will tell you everything you need to know.

Your surgical team should also know how to work the insurance game. Ask the coordinator if they know what you need to do/be to qualify.

Good luck

The BMI that "counts" might vary from surgeon to surgeon? My doctor's office will verify your insurance requirements in the beginning, but will only submit it officially for pre-auth once those (and the surgeon's) requirements are met, so they use the BMI from your final weigh in with the NUT. And I think the requirement to have a BMI of at least 40 with no comorbidities is some kind of federal regulation...