Hi all!!! After a couple of months my pcp finally sent an authorization request to see a bariatric surgeon!! I am so excited! But I am getting a bit nervous the request states that I have uncontrolled high blood pressure ( taking 3 meds for that) fatty liver, and last morbid obesity. I am 27 years old, i am 5'3 inches I weight 216 pounds. I am wondering if that is enough for my insurance to approve the request? I have a medi-cal (LA CARE)

At 5'3" and 216 lbs, your BMI is 38.3. Medi-Cal requires specifics concerning co-morbidities (for example, your high blood pressure) to cover surgery for patients with a BMI less than 40. You can call LA Care Member Services and ask for their criteria for bariatric surgery. They will either give you a link to view it online or send you hard copy.

I hope this helps!

@@2goldengirl thank you!

YeeHaw! Here's hoping for a quick and successful approval process. Congrats!

2goldengirl, the receptionist at my doctor mentioned something about my IPA approval do I need to contact them too (preferred IPA of California)

@ thank you! ???????? I am excited!

2goldengirl, the receptionist at my doctor mentioned something about my IPA approval do I need to contact them too (preferred IPA of California)

Preferred IPA will be doing the actual review of your surgery based on LA Care's criteria. You shouldn't have to contact them directly, they have to apply your request against LA Care's criteria.

Ohh ok I understand now. Thank you once again for all the great info! You are awesome!!!