Weight loss prior to surgery

Does anyone know if Anthem is requiring a certain weight loss prior to surgery approval? Also, are they requiring a documented weight loss program? I have tried hundreds of diets, but only Xenecal with the doctor's supervision. I cannot exercise as I ended up having a toe amputated and the big toe on my right foot cannot bend and stays swollen to about twice the size of the other. I am told this is permanent. I'm hoping that after surgery, I will be able to exercise without too much foot pain, but it is near impossible now. Thanks

weight loss is not a requirment before surgery for Anthem.but the dietitain will sumet the paperwork with a list of the diets you have tried. Hope this helps.

HI Michael, I have Anthem as well and had no problem getting approved with the first letter. I did have to see a dietician and we went over what weight loss programs I have tried in past, etc. I do hear however, that a lot of insurance companies want written proof from your pcp, documentation that you went to a specific program (like weigh****chers, etc) to know that you have exhaused every venue before surgery....they're getting tough. Best of luck to you.

Hi: I am awaiting approval from the same insurance. If you are going through EMMC, call Lynn Bolduc--she has the answers. I was told to write a diary of past attempts and hand it in to Dayna(dietian) at the one on one meeting with her--which I did. I think the insurance companies are more interested in what the risk factors are that are a result of obesity. Mine are high blood pressure, high cholestrol, bladder problems, joint pain, acid reflux disease and gall bladder disease. Hope this helps.