If your insurance is through BCBS, how long did it take to get your WLS approved?

It truly depends on the plan. Some plans except bariatric surgeries and some don't. I would recommend requesting the summary plan description or SPD, to confirm that bariatric surgery is covered.

I have bcbsnc which does not require a 3 or 6 month diet. But the NUT does have to clear you for surgery after you do everything she ask which may include to lose some weight. After my request for surgery was recieved by bcbsnv they approved within 3 days.

Each plan is different call and ask...i didnt have a timeframe i waited 3 months did my nut appointments and was approved

There are many variables that play into how soon insurance approves your procedure. Not all BCBS plans cover WLS, so do your research.

I chose a "Blue Designated Center", which meant that with the completion of the required psych eval, and meeting with the surgeon, the approval came with the consultation with the surgeon. After the surgeon consult, I had to complete pre op tests and attend the class with the NUT.

It was a quick and seamless process.

Edited October 25, 201510 yr by 2ndSojourner

If your plan covers the surgery and if you have met all the requirements once your dr submits to BCBS then they have 15 days to respond.

I had to do the 6 month supervised diet. After that was complete, it was submitted and I had my approval in 2 days, though my surgery coordinator told me it could take up to 2 weeks.

My BCBS TX plan specifically covers bariatric surgery in the plan with a $5000 co-payment. All I had to do was meet with the surgeon and complete my psych evaluation. Once the surgeon sent in the paperwork, it was quickly approved within a week or two. The surgeon I picked required a couple of things not required by the insurance (thus not covered by the $5000 co-pay) which were a one time NUT class, and an endoscopy. The endoscopy was covered by my insurance minus my yearly deductible.

Once all the requirements were met, I was approved within the week. The doctors office didn't call me until week 2. If you're really anxious, call the insurance company and they will let you know if you are approved before the doctors office will

Thank you

I think the approval took a month, I needed a note from my Gp, blood work, psych eval and visit to a NUT.

I got mine back within a week but it does depend on your plan.