Help...Folks With Aetna Ins

Hi all!! I have Aetna PPO and am in the final weeks of my 6 month visits to my regular physician. Trying to find out if anyone has gone through the process and been successful in getting approval. Apparently they are very difficult lately, so any word is great. All tests are done and at Dr. Aranow's office, so I should be applying for the insurance in about 2-3 weeks. Ann

Hi Ann, I have Aetna PPO - Dr. Bell's office made sure I had everything in order, including 6 mos. of medically supervised diet before they submitted the paperwork to them. I was approved within a week! Hope things go as well for you. God Bless, Kathy Bilodeau Lap RNY 12/3/03 -68 lbs.

Hi Kathy, Thank you for replying... how detailed were your primary doctor's records and did he give you a cover letter to send in also? I have my last appointment with him for documentation on Wednesday and then I will be going to Dr. Aranow's office for the final weigh in and give them all med records for submission to Aetna. It would help to make sure I have everything. Thanks again!

Oh my gosh, Ann! I just posted on the same subject! I was denied on Oct. 21 last year and have been doing the physician supervised weight loss program through my regulard doctor since just before then. That was the reason they initially denied me - because that info just wasn't written down in my regular doctor's notes - even though I see him all the time, for different things. Now, my HR Department here at work heard a piece of news that they want EXERCISE documented as well. Well I didn't realize that when I began this current 6-month journey. I think it may be the loophole Aetna is looking for. Ugh.... I'm so distraught! I don't think I have it in me if I should be required to go through another 6 months, plus, I can't do any walking type exercises because of my bad legs. My appeal letter was dated February 3 and Aetna says they have until March 10 (30 days from receipt of the document) to respond. I've been calling every other day or so, and no decision yet. I will be so anxious to see how your appeal goes. I hope we both get through! I need to have some chance at this life again. I almost feel like I'm beyond the point of ever being physically comfortable again, you know? I'm 5' 8 1/2" and 327 and 49 years old. I'd love to hear from you and anyone else who's interested. All my best to you, Linda.

Hey there Linda... hang in there!! I was fortunate to speak with someone at Aetna and they put me into an area of their web site that mentioned the exercise portion, so I've had the diet and exercise documented. If you have a really good doctor, he can probably add something to the records. It's basic documentation so it shouldn't be a problem. I know my physician is really helping me in any way he can so I can do this. I'm lucky... he really cares. Good luck and keep your chin up!! It will totally be worth it once it happens! I'm trying to keep my up too!!! LOL. Ann