Need some help on what to do to insure acceptance, from someone who has already recieved approval from them. I'm scheduled to go to a Free Info night at Lehigh Valley Hospital on July 10 to get started. Any info on what to do would be appreciated. Thanks.

While I'm not approved yet, I too went to the free info meeting at LVH with Dr. Boorse. From there you call the Weight Management Center and schedule a physical. Then you'll be required to attend monthly meetings for 6 months, along with appts with their nutritionist and social worker. I was told I wouldn't even see Dr. Boorse for an appt until my 5th month - where they would submit everything to insurance (I also have Capital Blue Cross - PPO). I contacted Blue Cross three times until I finally got someone to email me the requirements for surgery. Their requirements are not as strict as the doctor's program.

Good luck and let me know how you make out. While I know it's important to learn everything prior to surgery - 6 months seems so long! Mom22

Sorry - forgot to mention that I also went to free seminar at Sacred Heart Hospital - Dr. Holland - he only does gastric bypass (not lap band). I really liked him and the support group was fantastic. I leaning towards lap band - so I couldn't go with Dr. Holland - but he has a great reputation and has done over 1000 bypasses. Only downside is where Sacred Heart is located - it scared me half to death just driving downtown Allentown - seems like the local paper reports a shooting there almost every day.

:smile2:Thanks for the info Mom22 and I'll be sure we keep each other informed on our journey to "thinness". Let me know all the steps you have to go through along the way. Thanks, rcher

Hi! I just came across your post and thought I could offer my experience with you! I'm not sure where you're located in PA, but I know Lehigh is not that far from me. I attended an information seminar for the Reading Hospital Feb 28th and they get all your information that night and then call you set up your consult with the surgeon (who was extremely nice). This didn't take long at all, after that appointment I got my first nutritionist appointment (by the way I also have BC) I asked her about the required diet for insurance, and she said they are approving after 4 visits (with nutritionist)! So I'm going for my second nutritionist appointment in about a week. They said I should be good to go and be able to schedule my surgery by the beginning of August. I've already had my bloodwork and EKG done also. Everyone at the office is so sweet! I would definitly recommend checking them out if you're not to far from the area! I don't think I mentioned that I too am going for the lapband not bypass. Good luck with whatever you do!