A newbie

Hello My name is Donna and this is my first post. I live in Highland, NY and I have been looking into Gastric Bypass (Lap) for about a year now. I am finally taking steps after both knees being operated on in the past 4 months, and the recovery being godawful slow. I have contacted my insurance company, MVP, who said that I will have to have a BMI of 40 (mine is 51.7), lost 5% of my weight before the procedure, and have a full psychological workup. That is the most important to them it seems, the fact that I will be psychologically prepared for the eventualities that will occur. Interestingly enough I was afraid that without co-morbidities I would not be approved. I was told that if I did have a co-morbidity that it would bring my BMI down to 35?? I'm not sure what that is all about. In either case I have an appointment with my PCP on Wednesday. He is very supportive having tried to assist me in the past with weight loss in the form of pills, none of which were helpful. I also have a consulation with Dr. Homan in White Plains. I was initially displeased with the receptionist that I spoke to, she was very nasty. But after asking her pointed questions and her realizing I had done some homework, she chilled out a bit. I'm not so sure I will go with this doctor, but I am going to do more than one consultation in any event. Does anyone have any suggestions for me at this stage of the game??? Thank you.

Hey donna, welcome to the ny board , You will learn alot in hear and ask any question if you have any. I'm a preop as well. I go see my surgeon on july 19 and hope i get a date. We all family hear who likes to enjoy and have fun, so lets . Talk to you soon and dont hesitate to ask about anyting.

Hi Donna Welcome to the board. I had my WLS on 6/6 and I am doing great . If you have any questions or just want to talk get in touch with me. We have a support group that meets at St Francis Hospital in Poughkeepsie. The next meeting is on 7/12 at 7PM . It would be great if you could make it . I went to some before my surgery and it was very helpful. Good luck to you and I will keep you in prayer God Bless, Andrea

Hi Donna, Welcome... Congratulations on taking your first step in this incredible journey. I too, was concerned that I would not be approved (I have Blue PPO) because I do not have the common co-morbids. However, I do have joint pain & a strong family history of high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease etc. My BMI is 49. I was approved from my insurance the first attempt. I made a list of things my pcp should include in his letter of medical necessity & he did a great job. Most insurance companies want you to have a psych. evaluation. It really is a good idea. It helps you take a good look at yourself to try to identify why we're this way & what really got us to this point in our lives. Make sure you make your psych appointment soon because I had 2 visits & it took a little while to get in. Good luck and keep us posted. Tammy

Donna, Hun I just wanted to post and wish you the very best on this wonderful and crazy journey....~hugs~ Make sure you take the time to research your surgeon and if you do not like him/her then find another, go with your feelings hun. You will know the right surgeon for you once you mean him/her. It is awesome that your PCP is all for this, it sure makes this ride easier. Just keep reasding and asking questions that is the best way to learn. Remember to interview your surgeon as much as he/she is interviewing you! I wish you the very best.....and take care, have a great holiday weekend...~hugs~ Debra P

Hi Donna: Welcome to the AMOS family. This process takes a lot of time and consideration. My recommendation to you would be to check out this website to get an idea of your surgeons experience and track rate. If he/she is listed, you can also take a look at the profiles of some of his patients to hear first hand what their experiences were and even check if they have the same insurance that you do. This is certainly a life-altering event, and although I am only 8 weeks post op I have lost 39 lbs. my diabetes is practically non-existent and my kidney function has increased...not to mention how my face is thinning out and my clothes are getting baggy. As for your quesiton about co-morbities, I have (had) 2 and it did not decrease my BMI. You should probably get some clarity on that one. I encourage you to utilize all of the resources offered here. There are some really great people in the NY Message Board and throughout the website. They have truly been informational and very supportive. Best wishes throughout your journey. Karen

I thank everyone who has responded so far. Thank you for the warm welcome and for the encouragement. I haven't left this site since discovering it last week. I have pored over the testimonials, checked out doctors, was fixated on pictures and cried over stories. I am being so careful and I am in no rush. If my PCP approved me today and a surgeon approved me next week and by some miracle the insurance company jumped on board, I'd STILL need time to research and figure this all out. I promise to be careful!! Thank you again and I will be lurking around watching everyone who is so much further along than me, and wishing everyone well. Donna