Awaiting Aetna Appeal

I just keep reading how everyone has been "approved after first letter" under the Aetna insurer page. My appeal letter was sent in by my surgeon, Dr. Erlich on February 3 and I still have no response. It's driving me crazy. I feel like I'm slowly dying each day that passes and am so anxious today I could scream. I'm 49, 325 pounds and miserable - just trying to hold on to my job because it's so hard to get around. I started my journey for surgery last September and was denied on October 13. I don't know how I'm going to get by if Aetna doesn't approve me this time. I truly feel this is my last chance at a worthwhile life. Thanks for listening - I just had to vent. Good luck to everyone out there. Linda.

Hi Linda, I work in Human Resources - so I have some questions for you. Which Aetna plan do you have? Is it fully insured or self-funded by your employer? Do you have any co-morbidities? Have you been on a weight-loss program for the last 6 months (or recently for at least a 6 month duration) that was monitored by your physician? Have you had a psych visit and a nutritionist visit? These are all of Aetna's requirements. If you need to contact me privately, please feel free to do so. God Bless, Kathy Bilodeau Lap RNY 12/3/03 -62 lbs.