New policy for Blue Cross of Michigan

Minor correction:  These changes only apply to Blue Cross; not BCN, which still sucks.  I got this information from Blue Cross.  I assume it applies to all weight loss surgery approved by Blue Cross.  I don't know their policy for duodenal switch. Mark Pleatman MD www.laparoscopy.com/pleatman/index.htm

It doesn't apply to BCN?  I'm sooo heartbroken!  I just told my mom about these changes to BCN last night.  She's been waiting for over a year.  I don't want to tell her that she's still going to have to wait. 

Actually, it does apply to BCN as well.  I had them mail me the criteria, and that's what they sent.  My Surgeon's office also called and verfied it. I'm guessing that the BCN side might not be making it published knowledge yet.  But I have it in black and white.  Call the BCN number 800-662-6667, ask them about the new policy.  You may have to speak to a supervisor, but that's the information I got directly from them.

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!!!  I'm so glad I don't have to break my poor mother's heart, lol.  Congratulations on your upcoming surgery.  Make sure you keep us posted on your progress. Holiday Hugs, Jenn

Yes- applies to BCN too! Good news for your mom!!!!!!! SHannon

I was very excited when I read this!!! I called and spoke to Vicky @ Barix clinic and she told me they havent got anything in writting right now but if they do they will call me!! Im now on a 12 months diet with 6 more months to go!! So Im very happy and I hope it does change, I called BCBS and asked them and the lady I spoke to said she needed a procedure code in order to tell me...and also stated they have no alerts so she said she wasnt so sure that was true!! Boy I hope she donet know what she is talking about.

Vicky is very smart I bet she knows but can't say yet  a lap ge is a 43645 that is the code you are looking for ! Good luck

you know what you better check the code with vicky to make sure, it depends on a couple of other things short or long. so to make extra sure check the code first before you call blue cross back

I called BC/BS PPO SOM yesterday and they haven't changed their policy regarding the 12 months of supervised dieting. 

Im not quit sure what BCBS PPO SOM is??? I have just BCBSM PPO