Hi Laurel... This MGB forum seems a bit quiet so I'm not sure you will get all of the answers you need. I am currently pre-op and am scheduled for my MGB in Bay City, MI on July 13.  I was once where you are, uncertain where to start. I researched the LapBand, and finally decided to get the MGB. Are you considering the MGB or any WLS surgery in general? You may want to check out this website...  www.clos.net. The website itself is a little hard to navigate but it has tons of info on the MGB. There are several different dr's that perform the MGB in the US. I am in Ontario, Canada..so my provincial health care plan will cover the MGB in the US. As for your insurance, I have heard from many people that the first time that they inquire about WLS, their insurance companies say no... BUT sometimes if you pester them enough they may cover it. I believe the cost of the surgery is $17,000.   From all of the people I have spoken to that have had the MGB, not one of them has regreted it one bit. In fact, they refer to their surgery date as their new "birthday" because it has given them so much that they feel they have been reborn!!! To be scared is normal. I am totally scared! I have never had real major surgery before (well, I had my appendix out when I was 5 but I don't even remember that!). I just can't believe I have intentionally scheduled myself for surgery! I am a wuss! I know that if I can get through this, my life will be so much better. I am 5'9" and currently weigh 289lbs.   I hope that I have been a bit of help to you (even though I am only pre-op). If you have any questions, let me know, I might have the answer and can pass it along to you!! ~Dawn~ 

Dawn, Thanks for all your words of wisdom.  Yes, the insurance will cover the RNY.  I will get in touch with Kim.  Thanks again, and best of luck with your journey. Sheryl

Actually, he is the only Dr that I have found in MI that performs the MGB.  However, what I am hearing is that my insurance probably won't cover that particular surgery.  I will have to check after the holiday to see.Thanks for your advice. Sheryl

I am just finding my way around this forum and am seeking a Dr in MI for MGB. Any recommendations?

Hello Everyone! I am in the research stage of WLS. I had originally wanted to get the lapband but it is in no way covered in Canada ($16,000 was too expensive for me!!)  I am now considering the MGB. Any WLS surgery covered by OHIP (Ontario's Provincial Health Plan) has a long waiting list BUT they will also cover out of country WLS if it is needed to be done quicker. I am seriously considering going to Michigan for surgery. I admitt I do have lots and LOTS of questions!! I am looking for anyone from Ontario who has dealt with OHIP and can walk me thru the process necessary to get surgery done in the US. I am curious as to how long it took from beginning to end (from the time you first applied to having the actual surgery)? I am going on holidays for 16 days in August and originally wanted to do this before hand but now I think I should wait until after I return.  Any info would be greatly appriciated!!