Is there a NeWeigh program in Baton Rouge?

I'm interested in finding out if there is a program in Baton Rouge that will help with the process of getting approved by insurance company for WLS? Something like NeWeigh....I am in desperate need of WLS but I don't have the money to pay for it...I have BCBS of La PPO

Hi LaKisha I'm from Baker too. The NeWeigh program is not in BR, but the two doctors who were a part of it are still in that location -- Drs. Drake Bellenger and Andrew Hargroder (sp?). You can call Vista for more information or their offices. There are other practices in Baton Rouge including Drs. LeBlanc and Hausmann at OLOL and Dr. Louis Martin who will soon move to Baton Rouge General. Right now the street, there's a new program with an exciting young doctor at Lane Memorial. You can call Lane Memorial and ask for the office of Dr. Jonathan Taylor. I think the bad news is that BCBS of La doesn't cover weight loss surgery. Let's hope that changes really soon. I'm the leader of the Louisiana OH group and we will be meeting soon and you are welcome to join us -- before, during and after. All my best, Frances

Thanks Frances, I called this morning and BCBS doesn't cover the surgery or anything related to weight loss....Well I was really interested...but I guess now I will have to wait until I have the funds to pay for it.

Lakisha: I also have BCBS and they stink. Someday they will be paying out the whazzootie for all the bariatric surgeries they denied and people who developed major illness because of it. Don't give up....check www.whyweight.com. This is the Dr. Lavin group from Covington, now has an office in BR. The cost for lapband with these guys is currently $13,000. This is a lot of money. When it is meant to happen, it will, be faithful and keep your eyes open for financing possibilities. Miracles can happen. It happened for me and I never thought it could. Best wishes...CJ

Thanks....I do keep my head up...I have tried and failed so many times with diet and exercise....I know that WLS is the only way for me...It's just I am a single mother and I barely have enough to save for the surgery....ONE DAY!!!! I keep faith and I know a better day is coming!!!

I had the VSG with Dr. Bellanger at the Vista Surgery Center and paid 1/2 thru my pre-tax flexible spending plan and 1/2 financed thru Capital One Healthcare Finance. Total price was $11,900. I am one month down, 21 pounds lost forever and I have lost 5 inches in waist and 5 inches in hips. Come & see us over in the VSG forum for info on the surgery. My insurance didn't cover either...