Hello!

I have South Carolina Blue Cross Blue Shield, My Doctor Told me that I was a Candidate for the gastric bypass surgery. But thing is I am not sure how to get the Ball rolling, Do I contact my insurance or do I just go and try to let it go through? what would be the best way to go. Thanks so much!

Hi Samantha! Your next step, I think, is to see a surgeon. Do you have one in mind? Most have seminars for prospective patients to attend, so see if your surgeon of choice has a seminar and attend it. I had to attend the seminar before my doctor would give me a referral. Since your doctor is supportive of the surgery, have him/her refer you to the surgeon (do you need referrals for specialists?). Once you see the surgeon and get his/her opinion about your case, they'll get the insurance ball rolling, as well as the other hoops you have to jump through (psych evaluation, dietician, etc.). Good luck! Lisa

my doctor did refer me to go to a seminar that had the surgeons there, I am a bit nervous , Thanks so much for the response :)

Hi Samantha. I would suggest first of all checking with BCBS of SC because the last I heard they don't cover the Gastric Bypass. I talked to the BCBS Provider Rep last week and asked her about it and she said that they aren't looking at covering it because of the risks. I wanted to go into a full debate with her, but since I was at work, I didn't think it was a good idea. I wish you all the luck in the world. Take Care, Britt