I have Personal Choice insurance and live in PA. I went for my initial consult on Feb 19th and am awaiting a date for pre-op testing. My BMI is slightly over 37 and the doc said with my joint pain, back aches, etc I should get approved easily. Does anyone have a similar situation? If so, did you have to do the 6 month diet or were you approved right away?

Also, my endocrinologist is in the middle of adjusting my meds for hypothyroidism. I recently had a baby and it caused a flair up so my numbers are REALLY out of whack. I wonder if this will delay things.

I have been waiting 2 weeks just for answers from the doctor about a pre-op testing date and this is killing me. Anyone out there who knows anything, I'd appreciate your help more than words can express!!!

Although I havent been banded yet in my research i have found that several doctors wont band less than a year after you have a child, also your insurance company might be more inclined to approve you after your thyroid issues are under control..this is just my personal opinon not based on personal experience for what its worth.

I would call bc/bs and find out what will qualify you for the band I have bc/bs of mass ppo and for me it was 35 bmi with co-morbids ( I have high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes) or you have to have a 40 bmi. Not sure if joint pain is included in the co morbids. If I were you I would call and get your answers you need.

Helena

I have Keystone East POS (Pa). Though, the requirements are the same. You will need a 3 Month Medically Supervised Diet not 6 months. Which goes quickly when you are going for your pre op screenings. BTW, where in PA are you located?

Your Key is if you have any Co-morbidities with a bmi under 40.

I started my 3 month diet at 43.2 BMI. When my information was submitted to BC/BS of PA. My bmi was 38.3, I have Type 2 Diabetes, high cholesterol, and sleep apnea. I just got approved this past friday. :party:

Depending on where you are getting your surgery done. Some offices have a Insurance Coordinator. Also I have been in contact with BC/BS of pa.

You can also review your Health benefits at www.ibxpress.com

I just attended the UofPenn intro today. I attenmded 4 years ago but never got around to doing all the prep. I too an curious abotu Personal Choice. I havbe option 10 which is supposed ot be a good plan but I could not find much on IBX.com to help me. I am going to call tomoorw but I have a hard time trusting the info they give on the phone. ANyone have any first hand experience with Persoanl Chouce? I have a BMI of 40.

Would love to hear your experinces!!!