Well I dont know if im setting myself up to just get knocked down but im 33yrs and I have been over weight all my life my bmi is 36.8 and I have Gerd,High Trigyecerides,Edema,Artheritis,and severe backpain.I have Cigna OAP INS. My question is do you think I have enough co-morbid conditions to be approved or do I have to have a BMI of 40 or more? Any info would be great.

I'm not sure. With a bmi between 35 and 40 I think you may need to have more life-threatening co-morbidities like diabetes or sleep apnea. But I really don't know for sure. Also - I'm pretty sure you will need to do a medically supervised diet for 6 months.

I'd say talk to your regular doc or call your insurance co - or both.

I have to tell you - my bmi was around 40, but not that high in the previous two years, which is key to the insurance companies, and I don't have any co-morbidities so I didn't bother even trying with insurance - I went to the OCC in Mexico (Dr. Ortiz) and got the band for about $7k (I got a good rate because my sis and I got banded together). It was a great experience overall - and much cheaper and faster than if I had done it in the US.

But if your insurance will cover you that would be great. I also have heard that if they reject you the first time, many people appeal and win the 2nd time around.

Good luck!

Thanks so much for your reply I am in the process of the 6 month diet and I only have 2 months left and all my other test are done then my doctor will be sending all info to the ins.I just know I really need this so Im hoping and praying they will say yes.