Hello,

In April I began the process of getting the lap band. I was informed that my insurance requires proof of 6 month weight loss attempts; Dr visits or memberships.

For the past 3 years I have discussed my weight issues with my Dr and she would weigh me at each visit. She even prescribed phentermine for me but do to elevated BP she took me off. I meet with her every and/or every other month for at least a year. My concern is that it may not be enough for insurance approval. My Dr. believes it will be.

What has been you experience? This newbie is a little nervous...:smile:

well the insurance companies likes to make you jump thru hoops. this is ususally an attempt to prevent people froom following thru with the surgery. Most insurance companies do want a 6 month diet program of some sorts. once a month or every 30 to 35 days. Some companies will want you to loose weight but mine didn't. i just couldn't gain. I say just do the 6 month thing. i know it sucks but hey you gotta do what you gotta do.

I think your insurance will be mostly happy with that. That's pretty much what I had. I also documented every other weight loss attempt - Used Alli program for 3 months, weight watchers, nutri system, etc. I didn't have to "prove" any of it. I think the doctors notes from each appt did the trick. It showed that I did try to use my doc to lose weight. My insurance approved my in less than a week.

Good luck!

I agree with LBNDOC....try with what you have. If it's not enough, it's not. And you'll have to do the supervised 6 month thing. But if it is, and it very well may be since you tried prescription assistance, etc., then you're on your way.

Thank you all for the replies! I am hoping for the best and will keep you posted. Good luck to you all!

I have been lurking forever perhaps years.... Wanting to have the surgery but chicken.... Now....

I am 41 with 2 kids 8 and 11... I am just over 40 BMI

Hypo Thyroid Meds... High Cholesterol but the good is high too. I have been seriously battling my weight for about 16 yrs and I am currently heavier than I was 9 months pregnant with my oldest. It has really taken its toll on my health , joints, and mental state.

I have Aetna , Managed Choice, I have heard that my coverage is really good. Hoping and praying this will go off without a hitch. I don't want to jump through hoops, but i will if I have too. I have some degernerative disk disease in my lower back so my Chiro wrote me a letter stating that significant weight loss would improve my well being etc.

Wish me luck if you have any insight on how all this will play out please let me in on it......

thanks in advance

Lor