Does anyone know if the six-month supervised diet is still a requirement by BCBS in New Jersey? The insurance advisor in my doctors office seems to think so. But I don't see it in the BCBS insurance guidelines. I am anxious to have the sleeve this summer because I can take some time off work.

You need to call BC about your specific plan and get it in writing. They have been notoriously difficult for many of us (not only NJ).

Thanks for the reply. I did call (one hour ordeal) and was able to download the summary for Bariatric Surgery:

"The individual must have serially documented active participation in a non-surgical weight reduction regimen for at least 6 continuous months, in the 2 years prior to surgery, to enable both behavioral changes and adequate assessment of anticipated postoperative dietary maintenance. These efforts must be fully appraised and documented by the physician requesting authorization for surgery"

So, although this has been dropped in some states -- it apparently has not been dropped with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield. They said I needed to choose the State "Ohio" because that was the "Home Office" for my plan.....

NJ direct here. They told me on the phone I needed 6-12 months. My surgery was actually scheduled within about 3 months of my initial consult. The sooner you go to a seminar/get a consult, the better. The person I spoke to was mis-informed apparently. I only needed a psych and nutritionist report.

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Edited May 28, 201610 yr by NewAngela