Surgeon's Letter & Insurance Approval

Just curious....how much impact does a surgeon's letter have to an insurance company on getting approval for their patient? The reason I'm asking is I am waiting for the surgeon's office to send in the paperwork. They're handling all of it, in fact. I *think* that they'll send in some sort of letter with my file?? Thanks for any and all advice...it's appreciated! --Lori B in WV p.s. I have Aetna PPO

The majority of surgeons send in the request for prior determination of benefits. The surgeon writes a letter stating how you meet the definition of morbid obesity, list your co-morbid conditions, etc. The letter itself doesn't hold as much weight as the documentation sent with it. Good luck to you! Roberta

Thank you Roberta!! I have really come to enjoy reading your posts!! I appreciate you answering mine --Lori B in WV

You're welcome!