New to group question about PCP

Hi everyone, I am new to the site and very interested in lap band surgery.  My BMI is 40 and I have comorbids of HTN and hypercholesterolemia.  I am a mother of 2 boys ages 4 and 5 and I would realy like to be able to play baseball with them without getting short of breath.  Anyway, my question is this.  My PCP is not being extemely supportive of me in wanting the lap band.  She did say she would refer me to a surgeon, but I don't think her documentation will be supportive enough for the insurance piece and my concern is that once you get denied it's very difficult to become approved.  Since you are all in RI I was wondering if anyone had some good suggestions for a new PCP.  I have HMO blue NE which is the equivalent of bluechip.

If she said she would give you the referral for the surgeon  - I think he/she will take it from there.  I'm not sure if your insurance requires anything further from your PCP at that point. 

My PCP wasn't very keene on me having WLS - but suggested to me that I visit the surgeon (I think she thought he'd talk me out of it) - I was more convinced than ever when I left his office).  By the way - my PCP is thrilled now that I made the decision as all of my comorbidities have gone away and I've had a very healthy outcome to my surgery.

Best of luck to you

Pam

My PCP has stated in the past that he does not support gastric bypass...  I have not contacted him at all throughout my journey - untill a few days ago I was informed taht I need a letter of medical clearance from him for my insurance company.  So i made the appointment and I will see him next week... He can give me his opinion but as long as I am fit for surgery he cannot deny me of my letter.

My pcp is Dr Audry Kupchen and is located on Warren Avenue in East Prov.  I like her very much and she was the one that advised me to get it an RNY.  Lap Band was not done very much two plus years ago.  I had the RNY and I feel just great.  I didnt get down to the weight my Gastric Doc wanted but close enough.  I had Dr. Harrington do my RNY. 

Hopes this helps
Best of Luck

Carol B

I have HMO Blue NE also and had no problem what so ever about being approved.  I called and thier requirements were a BMI or 40 or above  OR a BMI of 35 or above with co-morbidities.  I had a BMI of 40 and no co-morbidities and got approved.  Just call the number on tha back of your card and find out if weight loss surgery is covered (some companies can opt out) and double check the requirements

Good luck