Michigan- HAP or BCBS

Has anyone from Michigan experienced either HAP hmo or BCBS ppo? Both offer WLS and both waive the documented weight loss programs if BMI is over 50. I have to choose one of the 2 and I'm worried I'm going to choose the one that prolongs my sleeve surgery.

Even though they may waive the document weight loss, the hospital you're going through may have their own program. So besides checking out the two insurances, I would check the WLS programs around you to make sure you know what they require.

I used HAP at Henry Ford Hospital. They take all different insurances. Even though you don't need the 6 month diet, it will take from 3-6 months before surgery. First you book the 4 hour seminar. From there, they book your nutritionist, your psych evaluation, your exercise class appointments. They are about 30 days after your first appointment. It takes about 6 weeks to get your visit with the surgeon. You can call and try to get your appointments moved up if anyone cancels. The next round is to get your blood work drawn, make sure you don't have sleep apenea and such. After all your appointments, you need clearance from one of their doctors (not your pcp). Then, you book with the surgeon to get your date. When I went in July, they were giving out dates at the end of September and early October. I fell through the cracks when the surgeon discovered there was a mistake on the board, and he needed another RNY on 8/4. So altogether it only took me 2 months, for most people it is 6 months without the diet.

If you use BCBS, you can go to another hospital maybe. Henry Ford is a Bariatric Center of Excellence.

THanks Lynn,  I just saw your response.  I did choose HAP, and am waiting on the first step- approval from PCP referral.  It's been 1 week since my doctor filled out paperwork, and I have heard nothing yet.  I was hoping on having the surgery before the new year.  Fingers crossed that happens.  My BMI is 50.6, and when I spoke to Henry Ford, they told me surgery in less than 3 months.