Update!

Hi everyone! I have been frustrated at how long things take with Drs. offices and the hospital!! Anyway, I just got a call from the surgeon's office yesterday, finally. They got all my records in order and received a letter of medical necessity from my doctor. However, things have changed recently with Blue Cross. Blue Cross now requires the patient to go to the psychiatrist first for the evaluation and MMPI, etc., then once they recommend it, then they submit it to insurance for final approval. Beforehand, it was the other way around. I see their point, but it is like waiting an eternity to get to the point to have Blue Cross approve it. They said Blue Cross might cover some of the meeting with the psychiatrist, but of course, you have to pay $450 up front for the meeting with him. I'm hoping BCBS will reimburse me some. The surgeon's office said after they get approval from the insurance, then they can pretty well schedule a surgery date and then complete the other pre-op tests prior to that date. Slowly, but surely, it is getting there. I was also at supper last night with my wife and another couple and one of the waiters overheard me talking to our friends about my pending surgery. He came up to me and said he had the same surgery 5 months ago and he has lost 140 pounds! He didn't look overweight at all..looked good..so if he had 140 pounds on him I don't know where he put it. He told me it was the best decision he ever made and he is so happy. What a success story to boost my morale!

Hi Steven, Since you are from Boone, can I assume you are using Dr. Sundberg? I just love him! I have BCBS and I had to do the psych eval before final approval. They paid for all of it except the 2 co-pays. I'll be interested in what you think of Dr. Martin. I consider him to be the weak link in the support system Dr. Sundberg has. Just be honest and answer the questions as honest as you can. Will you be at the support group meeting this Tuesday? It's really been pretty good. It meets at 6PM in the conference room to the right just as you come in to Dr. Sundberg's end of the building. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask me. Lyn 262/209/134

Steven, Glad you posted this. Good luck in your journey. God bless, Andrea

Steven, The waiting game is definately the worst! I'm sure it will all be over soon and you'll be getting your surgery date on the calendar. I had Doc Sundberg too. I think the world of him and his staff. I came through with flying colors and I was very happy with the folks at the hospital, (with one exception.) Best wishes to you on your journey!! Just remember - this too shall pass! Keep on posting! -Deb W.