Dr. Schweitzer, insurance, and lap band questions

Hi there! I am waiting to hear back from my BCBS Nat'l account for a Lap Band approval (with Dr. Schweitzer). Does anyone have experience with a BCBS National account that needed medical review lately? I see posts from the past couple of years, but nothing current. I was told, when I called, that their policy is currently "under review". Its been 2 weeks and I have not heard either way.  Also, if anyone has any information on their lap band surgery with Dr. Schweitzer, I would be interested in hearing your comments. I am confident in his ability. I'd just like to hear how long after approval you were scheduled, etc. Thanks for your support in advance!!

I had Lap Band surgery on 8/14 with Dr Scweitzer.  He is very direct and answered all my questions.  I chose him after much research. I have Hopkins EHP and I had to jump through several hoops to get approved.  Dr. Schweitzer's office staff is unbelievable.  They helped me with the approval process and were very patient with my many phone calls.  Once I was approved my surgery was scheduled four weeks out.  It wasn't long at all and it flew by fast.   If you have anymore questions, I would be more than happy to answer them. Good Luck!

Hi I just had DS with Dr. Schweitzer on 8/14/07. He and his office are fantastic. You could not be in better hands. By the way, I guess between the 2 of us we know who he did surgery on the 14. LOL

I'm your neighbor over at the other end of Benfield Boulevard in Millersville.  I'm awaiting approval from GEHA for a lap band from Dr. S.  Christine sent my paperwork at the end of July.  So far I've been favorably impressed.  Despite some staff changes since my first appointment, they haven't missed a beat. Dr. S. wanted to do an RNY because I'm a Type 2, but my shrink (who's knowledgeable about WLS) and I felt a lap band was better for the type of eater I am.

Edie, Have you considered the lap sleeve????? I had that instead of the band due to the maint. issues? I actually just had my surgery this past Thursday w/ Dr. schweitzer. Good luck Jen

Hi there! Thank you for the post!! My paperwork was submitted on August 15th after several hiccups since my consultation on May 18th. I can't believe I've been waiting all this time and am becoming very impatient. Now it is in the hands of my insurance company. I too have been working with a therapist and am hoping that with her letter and all of the other "dieting" proof I submitted that they will approve me. I read your profile and it sounds like we both are in the same place in our lives, just 10 years apart. I will be 40 in January and have 2 small children ages 4 and 17 months. I am doing this because I want to be "there" for my children, not impaired by diabetes and other comorbidities.  Any rate, I would love to talk to you further as it sounds like we are "neighbors" and going through much of the same thing at the same time. If you would like to contact me further, feel free to email me at [email protected] All the best, Chevese