I too have United health care and had my surgery at Desert Springs Hospital and they billed me for the balance this was in Sept 2010.

I'm having band done by him next Wed.

Thanks for your reply.  I have my second appointment with Dr on the 17th.  I am very excited for you and your upcoming surgery.  How have you prepared for your surgery?  Any good reading?  Someone posted a pamphlet last week that their doctor gave them.  It was very informative.  I'll be praying for you on Wednesday.
Karen

Hello, Dr. Sasse did my realize band almost 2 years ago. The people in the office are very nice and friendly (minus the front receptionist, I'm not a fan of hers.) It seems like when you call them it takes forever for them to get back to you and I always end up playing phone tag for several days before I can get in to see the; however, they are really good if you have an emergency and need to be seen ASAP. I did not have your same insurance when I had my surgery I had blue sheild blue cross PPO and they did require me to be refered from my PCP, to attend the seminar, to see a psychologist and dietitian, and to have the H-pylori test ( I believe that is required by WBI and not insurance.) My test came up negative so I didn't have to worry about the antibiotics. I believe I also had to have proof that I had been trying to diet for a certain amount of time before I would be approved for surgery.

 My advice to you is to call your insurance and find out EXACTLY what they require in order for you to get approved. It may seem like you have to jump through a ton of hoops but to me the end result was worth it. I have lost around 100lbs and recently started loosing again. Good luck and hope that helps.

I would like opinions/advise please!
I had my gastric bypass surgery on Jan 17 and will be going to Las Vegas, staying at The Mirage Hotel on March 5 and 6 and am worried about getting my protein in.
I have never been to the area before and trying to do my "homework"...I was originally going to see if the hotel would accept a shipment in my behalf (if I purchased protein supplement from GNC online or something) but now I am wondering if I would be able to just buy a two day supply easily while there? Does anyone know if the gym at the hotel sells any type of protein mixes or drinks or if the mall on the strip has a GNC type store?

I was just going to pack it since I do have protein powder but ....
#1 I plan to have just carryon type luggage since I'll only be there for two nights and am scared since it's not "true medication" TSA would confiscate it before boarding the plane
#2 I prefer the pre-made liquid drinks vs powder protein
#3 If I were to just "suck it up" and bring my powdered protein it might be hard to make it into shakes and similar since I will be in a regular room...