Had my initial consultation with the surgeon today and I meet the criteria they are looking for but my problem is they charge $350 for a program fee (psych eval, nutrionist and a class) my insurance covers all these things except the class. I have never heard of this. Has anyone else had this problem? My insurance said they have never heard of this as well.:thumbup:

Yeah I had my consult on Monday and I have to pay 300 for the pre op courses and admin--I also have a VSG consult next week so I'm still debating.

I was self pay so I didn't have to bother with the insurance but most doctors in the U.S. will require the nutrition class prior to performing the surgery.

Another practice I had called before finding the one where I had my surgery wanted $500 for program fee. They also wanted $100 deposit before I even made an appointment. I called my insurance and they said they hadn't heard of this either and said it sounded kind of shady( Anthem Bc/Bs) So I found another practice. This practice only required my copay. I did however end up paying out of pocket for the nutritionist visit($100), and my pysche eveal was only covered 80%. Other than that, insurance paid for everything.

I have heard of some practices doing this more now than since I was banded over a year ago. Good luck with whatever you decide.

Thanks everyone for responding. So I guess I just have to keep calling around and see if I can find someone that doesn't charge outrageous fees. Wish me luck everyone!!!!!:thumbup:

The first doctor I saw wanted a $1000.00 program fee. I look around found maybe 2 out of 5 charge a fee. I am going with True Results that doesn't charge a fee and everything covered by insurance. I would really shop around before I paid a program fee. You can check on BBB and see if the doctor has any complaints, also there is a attached link to see if the doctor has any actions pending with the medical board. Good Luck!

Thanks everyone for responding. So I guess I just have to keep calling around and see if I can find someone that doesn't charge outrageous fees. Wish me luck everyone!!!!!

We are talking about your body and surgery here. I wouldn't suggest shopping around for the cheapest you can find. Look for references and if the surgeon is good, pay the $350. A lot of people are paying upwards on $20,000.

It reminds me how I tremble when I see advertisements for the cheapest LASIK in Texas.

We are talking about your body and surgery here. I wouldn't suggest shopping around for the cheapest you can find. Look for references and if the surgeon is good, pay the $350. A lot of people are paying upwards on $20,000.

It reminds me how I tremble when I see advertisements for the cheapest LASIK in Texas.

Obviously it is our body. When I say shop around I was referring to the program fee. I did mention to make sure the doctor doesn’t have any issues with the medical board which is easy to check. If your insurance is covering the lap band surgery there is set prices that the doctor can charge. Some doctors are charging a program fee for a book and consultation with nutritionist. I think these fees are unnecessary, but that is my opinion. I am not trying to insult anyone else opinions. Good luck!

I don't think anyone was insulted.

Good luck