Insurance Questions. New here. Central Iowa.

After much research and thought I am taking the initial steps toward (most likely) RNY surgery.  I have my initial seminar that is required on May 9th with Drs. Eibes and LaMasters in Des Moines.  Because I am interested in laparoscopic as opposed to open Dr. LaMasters would probably be my surgeon of choice.  So here are my questions: Does anyone have any experience with Principal PPO insurance?  Difficulty of approval, etc.  My BMI is around 50.  I called today and made an appointment next week with my PCP to talk to her about getting records, etc of weight loss.  She has prescribed me Phentermine twice and obviously has record of my weight for many years.  How much of a "record" of weight loss assistance was required?  I'm sure I have record somewhere around here from buying my treadmill a couple years ago--would this be of assistance? Anyone have any ideas on actual out-of-pocket expense for the surgery?  My insurance, if approved, covers 60% and doesn't go towards out-of-pocket maximums for the year.  Just wondering what kind of cost I might be looking at. Just for taking a poll's sake--how long did it take you from initial consulation to surgery? Any info or any experience at all, especially with Dr Eibes/Dr. LaMasters would be much appreciated!  Thanks! Kari

Hey Kari!  Wow, well first off I wanna say welcome to OH and I'm real excited for you.  Now as for the INS part of your question, I dont have the same ins so I cant really help you about that, but you could hit up the INSURANCE HELP forum on here..I know that when I needed advice about mine..it was pretty helpful.  I can, however, help you with the Dr.Eibes/LaMasters question..considering Dr. LaMasters is my surgeon.  I had my initial consultation with her back in October of last year and I really liked her.  Ive never dealt personally with Dr. Eibes but he seemed friendly enough at the educational seminar.  I too am having the RYN done laparscopically.  Even though I only met Dr. LaMasters once, she was very professional but very caring at the same time.  She explained everything to me so I understood that this surgery is not my "way out" but rather a tool for the life-long commitment I will be making.  She just was very informative but also showed a compassionate side as well.  Like she really cared about my well-being ya know?  Ive experienced no problems with their office when it comes to communicating and getting all my stuff turned in.  In fact, last week on Monday I finished up my required 6-month supervised diet and had my PCP send everything to Dr. LaMasters office which they did on Tuesday.  Dr. LaMasters office received it Wednesday, went over everything to make sure I wasnt missing anything & they sent it out to my insurance on Thursday. Whew! lol All in one week, now thats what I call action! lol  I know not everyone can have it go that smoothly, but my point is..they did a great job for me and have answered all my questions along the way!  I hope you enjoy working with them as much as I have..hope I helped in some way.  Please feel free to email me or msg if you have any questions or whatever.  Take care and I wish you the best on this great ride!