Questions

I have BCBS of DE and was wondering if anyone else had them. If so how was the approval process? Has anyone ever been turned down by them and if so why? Also, the psych eval that is done at PMRI, I read a post that said the doctor was not friendly and that she did not approve them . What is the psych looking for. I thought is was more to evaluate that you were of sound mind and going into this with a clear head and expectations.

Theresa, I have BCBS. I was approved without any problems. Make sure you are prepared when you see the psych. You will have to take a personality test. She asked me what I knew about gastric bypass, before and after surgery. Make sure you research all the answers. I explained the whole process to her. The size of the pouch, the importance of protein, the importance of vitamins, I tried various protein drinks prior to surgery (although you tastes do change), I gave up all soda and sugar months prior to surgery. She said that I was very well informed and saw no reason to deny me. It seemed very important to her that I took the time to really research the program. Good luck and best wishes to you! Debbie

Theresa, I also had BCBS. I did not have to make any phone calls or do any follow-up. Christiana Care called me with my surgery date after BCBS approved the surgery, and then I called BCBS several days later since I couldn't believe that there was not more work to do on my part. As for the evaluation by the psychologist, remember you set the tone with the psychologist. Don't try and out-guess what she is looking for. Her job is to find out how you deal with stress, what triggers your relationship to food, and your knowledge of the gastric bypass operation. She is just trying to find out whether there are any factors that you need to deal with, that surgery won't help. If you have an eating or stress problem than you should take advantage of any guidance they can provide. They can also help with depression. A lot of people don't even recognize these symptoms, but most obese people have most of the major signs of depression. After all if being obese keeps you happy, why do the surgery? After my initial consultation, I proceeded to see the psychologist at PMRI an additonal ten times just to make sure that I was aware of many of my "food triggers". We did one session on yoga that I still use to help me to keep things in order. Another philosopher heard from. Keep up your spirits and don't worry. Rob

Hi Theresa, I can't top those 2 replies, just be yourself answer honestly and make sure you know everything about your surgery, even the doctor at PMRI asked me questions about what I knew about surgery. Take care you will do just fine! Dana

Theresa, I am going through Dr. Miller's office in Seaford. My BCBS DE was approved in one day -- of course, it seemed like forever getting all the tests done. My pre-tests included cardio and sleep apnea. I was also required to attend one support group meeting which I did. I also filled out a detailed weight loss history. Diane C.