I need answers. How much ...

I need answers. How much can I expect to pay for the WLS. I have an appt. with a dr. at ku in APRIL but he does not except self-pay pts. so if my ins. wont cover it I am wasting my time. How long can I expect to have to wait once I find a surgeon from my consultation date to surgery. my BMI is only 35 but I have gerd which is not controlled with meds, my knees hurt and I have a family history of diabetes. heart disease cancer and obesity. I have tried every diet out there over the years including lots of diet pills. I always gain it back and I am wore out. I want to quit smoking but am afraid to try because I will gain even more. I feel like I cant go on much more like this. I need help. How hard is it to get approval from your medical ins.and how long does that take. I also have RSD and I had back surgery in Oct. Please. Can some one guide me in the right direction.

Pamela, I think cost pretty much vary depending upon your surgeon, location and other pre-op fees. I have no problem saying that the surgeons *****QUIRE pre-op patients to PAY for and attend so many of their seminars sessions is a rip-off, but that's just MY opinion. I added my total cost of surgery being just over 48k and paid out of pocket under 1,000. I realize that not all surgeons allow self-pay so it does pose a dilemma for you. Have you actively reviewed your insurance policy, talked with them to find out their criteria to qualify for surgery? Some are adamant about having a BMI of 40 regardless of co-mords, some you have be over your ideal weight by some much percentage and/or 100 lbs. By finding these things out early on, you may be able to help prepare yourself for whether you can get approved or will be paying your consult fee out of your own pocket not being able to have surgery. Good luck in your journey! Big hugs, Sharon

I would advise checking out your insurance somewhat on your own. That way, you will know before April if they even cover it at all, or if they only allow certain surgeons, etc. It might help you move in a different direction sooner if they happen to not cover your doc but would cover others. If they do cover it and with your doc, then just wait for the appt. but if they don't, that time between now and April would just cause an ultimate delay since you already know he doesn't accept self-pay. God bless, Jenni

Hi Pamela, and welcome. I agree, first call your insurance company and ask if they cover the surgery. As far as costs, there will be a lot of variation. I am using Dr. Hitch**** from the Bariatric Center of KC in Overland Park. They have a wonderful reputation. I am fortunate that my insurance will cover this procedure, but I am estimating that it is still going to cost me $1,500 - $2,000 out of pocket. I know they do accept private pay as well. They have a wonderful program director, Nola, who will work with you in getting insurance approval. They also have monthly seminars explaining the procedure at no cost. I encourage you to check it out. There phone is 913-677-6319. Good luck! cherie