Blue Cross CA PPO - Lapband??

Anyone have any experience getting approved for lapband with Blue Cross of CA PPO?  I heard from one surgeon's ofice that they good experience with them. The surgeon I chose is way more experienced with the band than the first surgeon was however he recently relocated to Cali from another state so his current program is only a few months old and that office told me they have 4 other patients with my insurance plan and all were denied (or in appeal).  I do know my plan covers RNY as a coworker had it done last year but I feel strongly that the band is a better option for me.  I'd love to hear from others who have been through this?

You should not have a problem at all.  What were the reasons for the denials of the 4 patients?

Thank you for the reply and the reassurance. :)  I am not sure how the others were denied All but one was in the appeals process and they remained hopeful for a different answer soon.

Gary,  I found out the reason why Blue Cross is denying patients today. Aparently the facility this surgeon works out of is not one of their "Centers of Excellence" so the request was immediately denied. THe woman from my surgeon's office thinks they probably didn't even go any further into my personal history just denied it based on the facility.  Now, I don't have the denial in writing yet and I have read your advice and will not do anything until I do. But assuming the denial does come in writing is the COE thing something that an appeal might get waived?  The surgeon I have chosen is one of the most experienced band surgeons in the US. He particpated in the FDA trials and has placed over 1000 bands so for obvious reasons I would like to go with him.  I would really not end up with a less experienced surgeon just because he operates in an approved facility.  Thoughts?

Blue Cross PPO covered my lap band surgery, no problem.  Good luck on your journey. Amy

Thank you for the reply. I am looking forward to getting the surgery over with and starting the real work.

I had all kinds of problems,, until I hired Gary Viscio. Read my profile. Listen to him, hire him, and do what he says. He will get you approved. Steve