Dr Steinberg for Lap - Steps to take?

I'm pretty sure I'm going to use Dr Steinberg for the lapband surgery. Have the first group meeting in 2 weeks. But I am trying to get things going now. Anyone have advise on what all I will need to have done before I can get approved? So far I've called my primary for a referal to a sleep specialist and am now waiting on an appointment for that. Should know that today. Of course that's just the first consult visit. The actual sleep study would then be scheduled. I have a feeling I better get real used to doctor waiting rooms. :: About the supervised diet requirement. Years and years ago (probably 14+) I was on the medifast diet. Actually did good on it and lost quite a bit of weight but of course it didn't last or I wouldn't be here now. Last year I went to a diet clinic place that prescribes diet pills. Was on that for 2-3 months. They kicked me out because I wasn't losing. I hated the pills they made me cranky and nervous. So....anyone that can guide me as to what else I can do to keep this moving forward would be appreciated. Hugs Storm

I'm going through their office as well, but I'm having my surgery with Dr. Appel. I will tell you this about the supervised diet requirement, my insurance (BCBS of GA POS) didn't require it, so I told them I wasn't submitting it. They said that was okay, but that if I got denied because of that, they wouldn't help me appeal. So, if your insurance doesn't require it, you may not have to have it. Check with them first! Kelle

Ms. Storm ... Do I know you? I am Mrs. Snell. Pam

I don't think I know you. But you sure do live close to me. Where are you in this process?

I used Dr. Steinberg. Insurance required a 6 month supervised diet history within the past 2 yrs, Pulmonary Function Test, EKG, Psych clearance, Upper GI, Gallbladder ultrasound, and a visit with a nutritionist. Tip: Check with your insurance to see if they will cover the Psych visit. Dr. Ritz charges $300. My insurance covered my visit and I only had to pay the $20 co-pay....as a matter of fact, my insurance paid for all the "specialist" visits.