hey all, im in the process of trying to get my insurance (bc/bs nj plus) to cover my lap band surgery. anyone with any info or any helpful tips please share. im so nervous and waiting in in suspense to find out if im approved. please help. thank u

Hi Nik,

You're in good shape with BCBS of NJ. If you are medically qualified for the surgery, and if there is no exclusion on your plan, it's covered. Your doctor is probably your best resource for specific information, but everything I've heard about BCBS NJ is good.

Welcome to LBT!!

I've got Horizon BC/BS of NJ--They did cover my surgery. The only bit of advice I have is to stay on them--Take scrupulous notes regarding who you talked to and about what. Also make sure to get and keep copies of any correspondence sent to them on your behalf.

From the time my initial letter from my PCP was sent to them, to approval was about was 8 months--I think this is on the long side for them--I hear of others who've been approved in a more timely fashion--I used that time however to research, research, research......

Good Luck!

Thanks for the info Sally. I also have Horizon BCBS. I will keep on top of them for sure.

I have NJ BSBC. As long as you meet the BMI requirements and have your referral to your bariatric surgeon at the time of your official consultation you should be approved within the week.

Also, make sure you have a referral from your primary to see the nutritionist and the psychiatrist. Otherwise, they will give you a hard time about paying for those services.

thank all of u for ur answers and help. im glad there are a few of us from the same area. im from ocean co. where r u guys from? maybe we can have our own support group. lemme kno

I was approved but it took additional time because my doctor had to send over additional information. I live in jackson, my doctor is Noyan, having the endoscope on aug. 16 and my band surgery on sept. 19