Hi there.

I just wanted to start a thread on preop requirements. As I don't recall seeing one on the site.

I have just completed all of my preop requirements today. YEAH!!

My doctor's requirements were as follows:

A. Attend Informational Seminar about bariatric surgeries

Then:

1. Medically cleared letter (BCBS requires it says medically cleared or medically stable) for surgery from my PCP

2. Surgeon Consultation

3. Dietician Consultation

4. Psychological Evaluation

5. Pre-op testing (EKG, Echo, UGI Xray, blood tests, etc)

6. Attend Mandatory Support Group Meeting

7. Medical Diet History

8. History of last 5 years of BMI/co-morbidities(BCBS does not require)

A long process....but attainable!!!

I am so glad today I have completed the final steps and my doctor should have everything together by next wednesday to submit to insurance.......:biggrin1:

How has your preop process been!

I know it had me :eek:!

Mine has been a little different but real similar

Started doing research online 9/1/07

Called center for information 10/5/07

Filled out preliminary form online 10/6/07

Recieved paperwork: 10/15/07

*Diet History

*Health History

*Letter from PCP stating medical necessity, weight history, medical clearance for surgery

All paperwork submitted to surgeon 11/15/07

Pyschological evaluation 11/15/07 Passed

Surgeon's office submitted paperwork to insurance 12/6/07

Upon Insurance approval:

Pre-op classes with Dietitian, Physical Therapy, Pre-op testing, and Consultation with surgeon to set date TBA

Manditory Support Group meeting: Probably Dec. 19

Surgery. Hopefully sometime in mid to late January

I guess it has moved fairly quickly. :whoo::whoo::whoo:

I am in the pre-op stage now and here is where I stand...

Prelim meeting with PCP - 12/3

Lap Band seminar - 12/10

Surgeon consult - 12/10 (immediately followed seminar)

Nutritionist consult - tomorrow!

Psyc consult - trying to book one before 12/31

My insurance requires these things prior to 12/31 because on 1/08 they will no longer cover WLS. I am working really hard to ensure I go through the proper channels for insurance approval. My BMI is 44 so it's high enough to avoid needing other comorbidities.

After the consult with the psychologist I have to be on a medically monitored weight loss program for 6 months and then I can submit for approval. So... I'm looking at June for a possible surgery date.

I was hoping to have weight loss by summer but I'm willing to wait... I've been big for 23 years; I can wait 6 more months!

The best of luck to you all! I've learned so much from this forum that I could have given the seminar on Monday! LOL :whoo: