Just a few questions

I have not yet had surgery. I expect my insurance to get all of my test results, documentation, etc... within the week or so. If you are approved, how long does it usually take for an insurance company to let your surgen know? Im sure it varries...but I wondered what others have experienced??? I guess I am having some worries. I get scared that maybe I wont be approved. I dont know what to think. I am 22 years old, 240 lbs at 5.4'....and a BMI of at least 40. I have skoliosis, spinal arthritis (since age 19), Herniated disk in lower lumbar spine, Severe muscle spasms, joint pain, and exercise induced asthma. Some of these came the heavier I got and others I have had even dating back to a much healthier childhood. Am I justified in my quest for this surgery even though I dont have any life threatning diseases? I go through so much pain daily...and am unable to work out at all aside from walking and light swim. I even lost my job due to a medical leave for pain theropy. I am praying every day that this comes through for me...I need to regain some of my youth.

Hey there, Well congratulations on this huge decision!! It really depends on the insurance company you have. My documentation was faxed to my insurance company on a monday and they called the surgeon the very next day with my approval. I am 30, 5'4, 262lbs, and I have NO other comorbidies other than GERD. Other insurance companies take much longer. Your best bet....give it a week and call your insurance company. Keep on them! I worked for a large US insurance company and they are NOTORIOUS for pleading they never received the pre-determination or that necessary items were missing. Good luck!!!

Thanks for that info! I will make sure to call in a week...If I have to Ill drive them crazy! Anything to get the ball rolling!

Generally speaking I think the qualification is BMI over 40, OR BMI between 35-40 with 2 co-morbidities. I'm no insurance company, but I would be you will qualify. I have scoliosis too, and that is one thing that is exacerbated by my extra weight. I also have asthma. If you've been out on disability leave before for some of these problems, I bet they would count as co-morbidities. Hang in there and let us know what happens.