I was banded last Thursday, and I am scheduled to see my lap-band surgeon this Friday. On my discharge papers, there was a mandatory request I call another doctor, as well, for an appointment. I called, and the nice receptionist told me he is a Nutrition & Metabolism specialist. Well, that's just spiffy, but he is also not a part of my insurance plan (not that it might matter, since Horizon denied my claim for Lap Band), the initial visit is $175, and I would have to come back every 4-6 weeks at $110 a pop. This was not a cost I anticipated. I've already spent $19k (not including the still to come anesthesiologist fee) and am getting the suspicious feeling I am getting taken for a ride. Can't I just got to my PCP and he can run the blood tests to see if I am vitamin or metabolically defecient? I'll be sure to be asking similar questions to my surgeon on Friday.:eek:

Have to say this is the first time I have heard of this requirement. I would think your PCP could run any test this other guy could. Maybe even ask your PCP if there is another one he/she can recommend to do the same thing. Of course ask the surgeon for sure.

I was required to see a Nutrition & Metabolism specialist before I had surgery. This was required by my insurance, a 6 month program. I do know I have to follow up with him after surgery too. Maybe your insurance will cover your visits to this specialist. I know alot of insurance companies cover "health & weight loss" specialist, just not surgery. You should call your insurance carrier to see if these kinds of visits will be covered.

Mine did not.