Hoping to have surgery

I am just getting started. I filled out my packet and returned it. I go to the semiar on Wednesday. I am looking into the lap band. With Dr. Keith. Any hints on getting approved by insurance would be appreciated. my bmi is 38.3 I have constant heartburn lots of reflux blood presure is ok my knees hurt I just can't keep up with my kids and I have lost all interest in sex. I also suffer from incontinence not sure what problems I have to have but if anyone has any advice please respond Thanks SUsan

forgot to add I have united healthcare epo

Hi Susan! Welcome to the boards! I'm not sure what all you need for LapBand approval with UHC EPO, BUT, I have UHC PPO Options Choice (or something to that effect) and had a RNY. I was actually approved before I even knew it had been submitted! I have read on the LapBand board that approval with UHC for the band is pretty easy. Apparently it's one of the better insurances for quick approval. I know for certain that you have to have a psych eval. Luckily, I had my records from my PCP that went back to when I was about 2 months old! The medical issues you listed are all considered co-morbidities, and they should help make your case for why you need surgery. I would definitely recommend going to a support group (Dr. Keith's office should be able to tell you if he has one OR there are several you can learn about here). I wish you much luck and many successes! If I can help in any way, please feel free to email me. Heather

Hi Susan~ I had UHC EPO and was approved in about 10 days. From what Ive read on these forums, UHC seems to have the best approval rate. My starting BMI was 47.9 and I had a few co morbidities. Be sure when calling in to check on your status, ask for the Patient Care Coordinator...the customer service reps we're clueless. Good Luck! Bonnie LapBand Dr Keith 306/200/170 -106lbs

This may sound bad but if you could gain just a little more weight it would make things a lot easier on getting approved. A BMI of 40 or more makes it much easier to get approved with most insurance companies. If It might also help to fudge your height a little too call yourself 1 inch shorter than you are and see what kind of difference it makes on your BMI. I would feel guilty about doing this kind of thing but the Insurance Companies are constantly out to prevent us from getting the help we really need that sometimes you have to bend the rules. Dennis