BLUE CROSS/BLUE SHIELD Federal Program!!!

Is there anybody here, who has BCBS FEPS and got approval for the Lapband procedure. I am currently trying to gather documentation, and I would like to know if they have every at ANY time approved this procedure. Thanks for your assistance.

Make sure your PCP is documenting your weight loss attempts and comorbilities. In November of last year, guidelines changed for almost all BC contracts. Used to be BMI 40 or higher, or 35 with 2 comorbilities and your own list of attempted weight loss and weight history. Now you must be under a physician supervised weight loss program for a minimum of 6 months; and your physician must document that he/she placed you on a "supervised diet", what type of diet and you must be followed-up by him/her every month for 6 months. Your follow-up visits must contain your height and weight on every visit with documentation of your +/- weight for the month, any encouragement/discouragement by your physician (scolding for not losing). You may also need medical documentation showing your weight for the past 3 to 5 years. If you go to the BC website it will give you a "prequalification" sheet for your surgeon to complete. It helps to know exactly what they are looking for. You will have to put in your contract number/group number so it can locate your specific plan and guidelines. REMEMBER: You are your best advocate...no physician's office can give your case the attention it deserves....it's your life, fight for it. I am. Best wishes in your journey! Alli in Alabama