Aetna PPO

Hi guys.  I am new to the board and have just started my adventure with the process of Weigt Loss Surgery.   I have a question for anyone that has Aetna.  I have Aetna PPO.  When you read the list of criteria, they list as one of the criteria a: : -  6 month doctor supervised/nutritionist supervisored diet.  It says you must see a dietician and check in with your doctor for a cumulative total of 6 months within 2 years of surgery    or -a 3 month multidisciplinary diet prior to surgery (diet, behavior modification and exercise like the one offered at the Atlanta Medical Wellness Center) The OR tells me it is an either or....however, I can't seem to get anyone to answer which one the insurance company will decide I need to do.  I have already signed up for the 3 month multidisciplinary diet, but at the seminar I went to on Saturday, everyone that said they had Aetna was told they would have to do a 6 month diet. Has anyone been approved by Aetna with the 3 month diet that meets the criteria for Aetna.  Please please help.....I'm getting frustrated. Cyndi

Hi Cyndi, I am sorry I can't answer your question from personal experience but I would suggest that you call Stacy @ the Wellness Center, 404 265-6468.  She usually knows about the nutritional stuff for the insurance companies.  I have heard many people (unsure what insurance companies) that have been given the choice of 6 months supervised or the Atl Med Cntr program.  The people you spoke with at the seminar may not have understood the difference.  Stacy is a great and helpful woman.  I am sure you will like her.   On another subject, regarding your upcoming hysterectomy, I would be careful not to schedule the hysterecomy first.  Scar tissue could be a factor in your WLS.  I know they asked me with all my abdominal surgeries how long ago they were.  And the positing of scars was important too.   How old are your seven kids and which schools do they go to?  I am on the border of McDonough and my daughter lives in McDonough.   Take care.

Hey Pat, I tried to respond to your message you left me yesterday and there is no button to respond to it.  I think I am doing something wrong.  But...to answer your question, my 10 year old is a girl... I definitely want to get involved in the group/support groups, I know they will get me through.  I need to plot them on my calender so that I can work them around my kids and their activities...they keep me running.  You asked if I worked and I do, but I am a Realtor and mostly work at my home office.  If there is a phone, I'm at work. I really appreciate all the wonderful advice you give me.  I see that you are a wonderful support for everyone.  You are a blessing. Thanks again, Cyndi

Hello My name is Kinda (Kenda) but anywho, I am with Aetna PPO. And I am going thru that right as we speak. At first my pcp had me on the six month supervised diet. But they did not approve it because she did not send in her notes.  So when they denied me she said we all start the three month multidisciplinary diet prior to surgery. 

 You can pick one or the other if you would like if one fells try the other. but whatever you do make sure your doctor is taking note on your diet and other health problems.  The more info on you the better.  But I started the six months diet first.   I hope this helps. I have two more months and then we will see. I will pray for you.

Thanks so much for your response.  I'm going to do the Lifesteps Program at Atlanta Wellness Center starting the first of August and it is the 3 month multidisciplinary program that does all 3 aspects, diet, exercise and behavior modification.  My regular doctor wants me to visit her for weigh ins to document my medical file as well.  I hope and pray that is accepted.  I definitely appreciate your prayers and will most definitely add you to mine. Thanks so much, Cyndi