Hi!! So I have been thinking and researching this surgery for two-three years now but I am finally ready to move forward but kinda lost on how you start.. so I goto my PCP or call the hospital directly? Anyone from MI ( Ann Arbor) area too? Thank so so much:)

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It depends on your insurance. Mine had a list of recommended surgeons and I just called one and made an appointment. I did not need a referral from my PCP, which is a good thing because she didn't think I needed it.

Do you know for sure that your insurance covers bariatric surgery?

I researched all of the bariatric practices in my area and narrowed it down to 3 well regarded, experienced practices with good records. Then I went to each of their info seminars to get a gut feeling. I made an appointment with my top pick and they laid out all of the next steps from there. they gave me a list of all of the other doctors I would need to see for clearances based on my medical history (gastro, pulmonary, psych, nutritionist, cardio, sleep study, endocrine). After all that was done, all of that info was forwarded to my primary and he made the final clearance.

It takes a while and you may have additional hurdles depending on your insurance company.

Good luck

Thank you!! My insurance does cover it just need to get a list of surgeons I guess:)

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My PCP was totally against me having the surgery so I went straight to the Dr that I wanted to do the surgery. I researched all the docs in my area and found that one that I felt comfortable with . They then organized all of the visits that were needed to get me approved through my insurance. This process can take months on top of months so get started early. Good Luck!!

Hello, I'm Susann from Michigan. It depends on the insurance you have...I have blue cross/blue shield (If BMI is >50, there is no waiting period) so, I Googled "bariatric surgery" near me. It showed Beaumont Hospital/Royal Oak. I had a center near my house. I went to a seminar...then, my first visit ($200 upfront )and have been moving toward my goal since September.

However, my BFF has "HAP" insurance and they required her to get an approval just to attend the seminar.

***Definitely call your insurance FIRST...

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