Hi!

My name is Kim and I'm currently in the approval process for RNY at Vanderbilt. My insurer is Cigna through the state of Tennessee teacher's plan, so I'm nervous about approvals and such. I've had my psych eval and am in the process of having various other tests done to satisfy Dr. Torquati's wishes as well as to establish co-morbities, should I need them (sleep apnea, digestive issues, etc.). I've been reading OH for several months now as I prepared and decided that it was time I quit lurking and officially came out. I'm hoping to be able to get this process going in double time ASAP.

Welcome Kim! I'm doing the waiting thing with Centennial and its about to drive me bonkers! Centennial requires pre-approval before I even have a surgeon consultation. There is no telling how long this is going to take. I've already had minor problems with my PCP getting their stuff together. I'm hoping yours goes a lot smoother. I hang out here a lot, especially during down time at work if you have any questions, comments, or sarcastic remarks. April

Hi Kim, I had my surgery at Vanderbilt. Dr. J. Kelly Wright. I am 18 days post op now. It has been hard, but I am so glad that I did it. Good luck! If you want to talk, just email me and I will call Mikki

Hi Kim. Welcome to the boards. You can find a lot of support here. I am also going through Vanderbilt with Cigna (but not the state plan). Have you checked your insurance plan exclusions to make sure the surgery was not excluded? Also, Cigna does require 6 months of a Dr. Supervised diet regardless of what your company sponsored insurance plan says. I learned that the hard way. . I am now in the middle of my 6 month plan. If you have not done one in the past two years, I would suggest start going to your PCP for monthly weigh ins and weight talks. You can also set that up with Vanderbilt to go to there for your monthly weigh ins but I find it easier through my PCP and insurance wise. It has to be noted that is why you are seeing him - for the 6 mth diet. That way, you can be getting that out of the way while you finish up the rest of your tests and paperwork. I hope you have a lot of success and get approved quickly. Keep us updated on your progress. Let us know if you have any questions. Misty

Kim, just wanted to say hi, and welcome to our board. Remember this all good things come to those who wait. I fought for over two years for surgery, thru all the up's and down's and now I'm 2 weeks post-op. You will get your approvel, it may take time, but you will get it. May God travel with you on your new journey. Kathy