Anyone recd approval from HIP Healthcare Partners?

Hey New Yorkers.... So happy to find this Board I am hoping to have surgery very soon. Finished all my pre-testing and have an appt to see my surgeon's (Dr. Mecura) physician assistant. I haven't met him yet. I have researched wls for several years and started my pre-testing about 1 1/2 years ago but found out that my previous insurance carrier would not cover the Lap Band so I decided to let the wls go and thought that it was a sign and that it wasn't meant to be... Well, I am back at it again and have really done my homework but wanted to know if anyone received quick approvals from HIP Healthcare Partners? and how much time between receiving the approval to having the surgery are you allowed? I am going to Texas on January 1, 2007 (my family reunion) and didn't want to have the surgery until I returned; however, if I receive approval by or before the end of this month, I am concerned that I may have to have the surgery within the next month or so, which means that I may have to go to Texas shortly after surgery. Any comments are much appreciated. VeeLove

Hi VeeLove, Welcome to the Board We are like a BIG family! Sorry, I know zero about HIP. What did your surgeon say about past clients who had HIP? I would ask him, or his Office Manager - they might know. Good luck! -Karen OH...there is also a link on the left for Insurers/info!

Thanks Karen. I will ask them... my appointment is on 10/27. I am anxious and thought maybe someone on OH might have had some past experience ;) I've waited so long, I guess I can wait another week or two I checked the link for insurers and unfortunately, HIP is not on the list just my luck... Thanks for the welcome! Vee

It all depens on how quick you finish your pre testing and your doctor's schedule. I started my journey in November and was approved 6 days before surgrey in May and hip is very quick. They generally don't request for approval until u have a dtae just pick a date thats after your trip.

Thank you so much for the reply. I have my appt. with my surgeon's Physician Assistant on Oct. 27th and will ask her too.... I am so excited and can't wait until I am banded...... Talk to you soon!

I forgot to say CONGRATULATIONS on getting your wls date.... I'll check in on you to see how you are doing? Do you ever visit the LapBand Forum?