I am new to this board. Is there a group that is specific to the Hampton Roads/Peninsula area? I'm going through the process at the WLSC in Newport News and would love to talk with some local people who have used the same doctors.

Thanks!:biggrin:

I'm ML from VA Beach. I'm having my surgery at WLSC - not sure who my surgeon is since I've been going through all the insurance requirements before they can submit everything to Cigna. I'm hoping to get banded in August. Very excited!

hello bridgette & ml !!!! Hope y'all are doing ok this holiday weekend! My dr. at the wlsc was dr clark. the whole experience was good. Love my band. I'd probably be 50-70 lbs. more by now without it!!!!

Good luck to you both!

hello bridgette & ml !!!! Hope y'all are doing ok this holiday weekend! My dr. at the wlsc was dr clark. the whole experience was good. Love my band. I'd probably be 50-70 lbs. more by now without it!!!!

Good luck to you both!

Hi Diane and thanks for the welcome, I am actually on pins and needles awaiting insurance approval. Do you think it's strange that I havent met my surgeon yet? Dr. Terracina was at a conference when I went to the seminar last month so I only got to meet Dewey his PA. I've heard great things about Dr. Clark. Did you find that the insurance coordinator was pretty on top of things to get you approved? Sorry for all the questions!

ML

Good Morning VA,

ML, doctor Terracina did my surgery, actually, I was his first lapband patient 3.5 years ago.

I would suggest you speak to both surgeons and decide who YOU want to do your surgery. They're both great, so you will be in good hands either way.

Let us know what YOU decide.

Thanks for the advice. I didn't think I had a choice on which surgeon. I assume that once I'm approved I'll get appointments scheduled to meet them.

Thanks for the advice. I didn't think I had a choice on which surgeon. I assume that once I'm approved I'll get appointments scheduled to meet them.

ML, Dr. Clark did my surgery 10 days ago. He was the doctor whose seminar I attended. I think that's how they assign you, although I would think you could request.

Good luck to you and Bridgette. There are many knowledgeable people who post and give you support. I feel so fortunate to have found some of the best.

Donna

Thanks, Donna. Wow...10 days out! If you're willing to share, I'd love to hear about your overall experience from dealing with the folks at WLSC through to the surgery. Thanks again!

Hi ML, The person/people who processed the insurance end of it for me, made it positively effortless! It also was pretty quick (hearing back from them).

I requested Dr. Clark. Then, based on positive responses for Dr. T, I expressed a possible interest in changing dr's. The staff was more than willing to accommodate my wishes, I have heard nothing but good things about both doctors....and ultimatley, am still satisfied with Dr. Clark as my surgeon.

Bridgette and ML, any news on a date yet, or which doctor?

Thanks for checking in, HarleyNana. No word yet. My case is "pending review" with Cigna. No idea what that means. Wondering if Cigna will call me or my surgeon first with news of approval or denial. Ugh! I hate the waiting game. These boards have been a God send!

Fingers crossed for you, ML!

Thanks for all your support!

I got word today that Cigna (primary insurance) denied me due to lack of medical necessity and 24 month BMI. I called Tricare (my secondary insurance) and was told that a referral is not needed and all my surgeon has to do is submit the authorization. Can it be that easy?? Not getting my hopes up. You would think it would be easier with 2 insurance plans, but it sure isn't.:embaressed_smile:

ML, so sorry about the denial, but even if you're not approved, put a second mortgage on the house or do what you need to do to gettter done!

ML, so sorry about the denial, but even if you're not approved, put a second mortgage on the house or do what you need to do to gettter done!

Tricare will deny if they Cigna says its not medically necessary so I'm out as far as insurance is considerd. Already in process of looking at loans, HarleyNana. WLSC has a date available the first week in August so I'm shooting for that!