Hi everyone - I'm new to the board, and everyone sounds so wonderful, supportive and helpful. I hope someone here will have some information or can point me in the right direction. I've been researching the banding process, results, etc., but can't get any straight answers on insurance coverage, partial or full. I have Anthem - Blue Cross/Blue Shield in Northern Virginia.

Help! Anyone out there???

Ndnroper in VA

You'll get the most accurate information from your benefits coordinator at your job. Each company sets their own rules on what is and isn't covered. Be sure and specify the adjustable silicon gastric banding (or Lapband) surgery so they'll know what type of weight loss surgery you're interested in. Best of luck to you!

Sorry, can't answer that question but wanted to say welcome anyway. I have BC/BS of California, and they refused to pay. Good luck to you.

I have Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield and they pay 80%. Call and check with your ins co. to be sure.

I went online to BCBS and registered. Then searched my plan for the IDT? or CDT? code for Lap Band surgery which is 43843. My plan came up with weight loss surgery and I was able to read about my coverage. Mine did not cover Lap Band. Yours might and it will give you the criteria. You just need that number. Good luck!

Thank you for all that replied. I was really overwhelmed at the number of responses I received. I will definately check into the procedural number issue. I'd like to leave my HR Coordinator out of it as much as possible. I will certainly post any findings, positive or negative.

Thank you all again, and good luck with your bandings and finanancing!

NDNROPER in VA

ndnroper, how's your search? just checking in on you.

Hi Kathy - I'm not having anymore luck right now on the insurance end. My fiance is moving up from Texas in a month. He and his brother work together and they have the same insurance. Their insurance covered her steal banding. So my hope is that they will cover the silicone fill lapband.

I was home Monday with the flu and was channel surfing. I stopped on a local broadcast station that happend to be airing a show regarding the band and Dr. Pinnar. He, his father and their practice seem to be very well qualified. I find that little things like this keep happening. Why would this show be on, during a day when I am actually home and on a channel that I never watch. I think some things are meant to be, and are that way for a reason. I hope I hope!!!

What is going on with you?

PS. I'm over the flu and glad of it. The dizziness alone decommissioned me.

Best wishes,

ndnroper

Okay, what's a steal banding? Do you mean steel? That's news to me. I know there are several different types of bands around besides the Inamed, but, please explain! It's so good that you have a Band Dr nearby, just make sure he's a trusted one with plenty of experience. Do your homework!

I pay attention to little signals like that. Some might say Life talks to you. I prefer to believe it's God, but I always question my own interference in the messages, ya know? Am I only hearing what I want to hear? Like when your'e car shopping, and decide to look at Honda Accords. Never really noticed them before, but now that your looking, wow! they're everywhere! I am getting positive signs in favor of the Band, too. Follow the path until it says stop or turn, see where it leads...

Glad you feel better. Take care and come back as your search leads you!

Hey! When are you getting married?!