6 Month Structured Diet Program Requirement

[Apple203 1,314]

Hello, does anyone have information about whether Weight Watchers online qualifies as a "structured diet program"? I am just about up to 6 consecutive months. I haven't had one-on-one consult yet, just the informational webinar. Of course, I want to know right now, LOL.

[swimbikerun 1,041]

What does the one paying for it say? Usually this sounds like an insurance requirement. I'd ask them. If it is your bariatric group/surgeon, ask them.

Get it in writing and keep it.

From what I used to know, in most cases online doesn't count. Has to be in person.

[Apple203 1,314]

When I asked them, my insurance company said this: "All of the information would need to be submitted with your claim once services are rendered. XXX does not track this information. It is up to your physician to track and submit all necessary medical documentation upon submission of the claim. I hope this helps to clarify what is required and how it would be submitted". Sigh.

[swimbikerun 1,041]

Ok try this.

1) Ask the surgeon if they have submitted to this insurance before, and ask them to call and see if it fits their needs and the insurances' needs.

2) Ask to move further up in the chain and you need a specific yes/no answer as to whether or not it would be approved if submitted. Be nice, but be firm and keep asking.

Dang. I will say BCBS gave us a list of what would and wouldn't fulfill the requirements.

[Apple203 1,314]

Will do! And I sent another note to insurance, pointing out that this is their requirement, not the doctor's. Here's what I sent:

"I'm not trying to be difficult, but the bariatric program that I am considering says this is strictly an insurance requirement. This one requirement could conceivably require an additional 6 months at Weight Watchers".

Edited August 1, 2017 by DoodleLover203

[swimbikerun 1,041]

Great! I think it is just on the part of being lazy by the insurance people. I mean seriously, it is in those documents they sign with groups as to what coverage is there and what isn't.

[blizair09 3,250]

My surgeon's staff had to keep extensive records of the six month diet program. I know my insurance wouldn't have accepted Weight Watchers or anything other than working with a physician. I would just ask the insurance company. They are the ones with the answers.

Good luck!

[CJ Sunshine 241]

My insurance required a monthly report signed by my doctor for six consecutive months. Weight watchers would not have qualified. I have United Healthcare.