Anyone have MCARE?

I am new to the website and am looking for some input on getting approved through MCARE.  They want 12 months of documented visits related to diet with my PCP.  I have that but I didn't go every month.  How strict are they on this?  I have documentation on the diets I tried, receipts etc.  Out of a 12 month period, I saw the doctor 7 months. I appreciate your input, Susan

Susan -  We've chosen the same surgeon!  Don't you just love Dr. Obeid?  :) The specific requirements for different insurances vary so much - even with the same insurance company there could be several different policies depending on which company you work for.  Some people who have BCBS (same as me) have told me that 12 monthly visits are required.  However, when I called BCBS and asked that question specifically, I was told that monthly visits were not required ... in fact I even asked them to send me a letter with that specific wording and I just received it last week and yep, they were right - no monthly visits required.  Just visits throughout the 12 month time period.   So I would suggest contacting MCARE and asking them that question specifically.  "Do I need to see my doctor for the diet history every single month for 12 consecutive months, or is 7 visits within 12 months sufficient to fulfill the requirments?"  Then make sure you record the exact time/date you called, the phone number you used and who you spoke to exactly.  And keep that information for your records.  Good luck! Pam

Thank you Pam for your reply.   I just received a letter from MCARE and it says: "Documentation of a coordinated, physician-supervised weight loss program for a minimum of 12 months, started and completed within a 24-month period prior to the recommendation for surgery. (The documentation requirement may be satisfied by a detailed submission about your multidisciplinary weight loss program or by your PCP's medical records.  PCP documentation must indicate a minimum of 10 visits during a one-year period.  Documentation should include periodic weigh-ins (at least monthly).....   That last part is what I am worried about.  I didn't go monthly. Do you have a surgery date yet? Susan