How long did it take for approval?
I began the process with New Start at the end of January 2004. I had surgery on July 6 that same year. If you read my profile, you'll see that much of my delay was because New Start couldn't get their act together. When they FINALLY focused on me, the approval process was quite quick. I met my surgeon the week before surgery, on the day of my pre-op testing.
My word advice: Remain proactive at all times. NEVER let anyone be in control of the situation!
Pamela