Hi, ya'll. Although I've been visiting this forum for a couple of weeks, this is my first post. I'm scheduled for surgery on May 14th. I'm so excited!

I first talked with a doctor about Lap Band in early November about 3 1/2 years ago. It took a month or so to get through my psych and nutrition evaluations and get a referral from my PCP. We submitted the paperwork to my insurance company (Unicare) and I waited and waited. Finally on December 27, 2004, I was approved for coverage. Unfortunately my employer changed insurance companies effective the first of the year. Arghh! I begged my surgeon to figure out a way to get me in for surgery by December 31st but of course it didn't happen.

Fast forward three years. My employer once again changed insurance companies to one that covers WLS (UHC) and I started the process again with my first appointment on April 14th. Lucky for me I didn't have to go through the psych and nutrition evaluations again. My surgeon's office submitted my paperwork to the insurance company right away and I received my approval letter on April 28th.

I have been on the pre-op liquid Optifast diet since May 1st. So far I have lost 7 lbs -- I'm sure all Water weight but that doesn't stop me from being proud of it!! May 14th is my big day and I'm so excited. I can't wait to meet the new me. Anyway, thanks for your time and take care.

Congratulations & good luck on the surgery!

Congrats on the pre-op weight loss! Good luck with your surgery and I hope you have a speedy recovery!

Welcome to the forum! It is awesome that your new insurance carrier covers WLS. Best of luck as you go through the process...again.