Hey all...

So it happened. Blue Cross denied me. Through some careful manipulation, I got an appeal meeting for Monday morning. I am digging out everything I have, writing up an argument, etc. (see my thread here: http://www.lapbandtalk.com/f84/devastated-blue-cross-blue-shield-52974/ for the full story).

Anywho, I am begging you all for a bit of help, as you all have had unique experiences in this area. I need data, studies, testimonials, ANYTHING, expressing the following:

Risks of Gastric Bypass vs. Lap Band

Success of Lap Band vs. Gastric Bypass (short term and long term)

BMI restrictions and Lap Band

Benefits of Lap Band in BMI's over 50.

I am researching my own data and coming up with charts and such, but anything you guys could add so I can get approved by BCBSNC would be sooooo helpful. I plan to BOMBARD them with information.

Thanks guys. Keep lookin hot!!!!!

I wish I could help, but all I can add are prayers and warm wishes going your way.

Good Luck!

Nicole - I wish you all the best. I can't for the moment recall which member it was that appealed & won w/BCBS, maybe if you do a search you might find her (believe it was a "her"). BCBS played a LOT of games and changed requirements midstream in my process - I eventually went self pay to get the procedure done sooner rather than wait.

Again ---- much luck to you,

BCBS denied me the first go around and then I wrote a personal letter pouring my heart out describing how my weight had a effected my life and I was approved. Good luck with your appeal!

Hey all...

So it happened. Blue Cross denied me. Through some careful manipulation, I got an appeal meeting for Monday morning. I am digging out everything I have, writing up an argument, etc. (see my thread here: http://www.lapbandtalk.com/f84/devastated-blue-cross-blue-shield-52974/ for the full story).

Anywho, I am begging you all for a bit of help, as you all have had unique experiences in this area. I need data, studies, testimonials, ANYTHING, expressing the following:

Risks of Gastric Bypass vs. Lap Band

Success of Lap Band vs. Gastric Bypass (short term and long term)

BMI restrictions and Lap Band

Benefits of Lap Band in BMI's over 50.

I am researching my own data and coming up with charts and such, but anything you guys could add so I can get approved by BCBSNC would be sooooo helpful. I plan to BOMBARD them with information.

Thanks guys. Keep lookin hot!!!!!

From the things you've listed, it sounds like your insurance is pushing the gastric because they think your BMI is too high. You might try contacting people in the Weight-Specific Groups for "BMI Over 50" or "200+ To Lose". There are lots of people in there who could add weight (hehe :confused:) to your arguments.