I would like to have the lap band surgery but am wondering if anyone knows if BXBS would pay for it.  I have a BMI of about 40, high blood pressure which is controlled by drugs, back problems (previous surgery), arthritis in my knees and ankles, (have just had a sleep study but don't know the results).  I have lost and gained 100 pounds five times in my life following a new drug.  The last time was three years ago.  I took an antidepressent and lost over 100 pounds.  I can never keep it off even for a day.  Will the fact that I was thinner three years ago disqualify me?  Also how much pain is there and for how long? Thanks

Hi Judy, Thanks for the words of encouragement. I think I am going to try to call the insurance again tomorrow, it will be seven business days,. I have the right to call to check. Thanks. Loretta

you'll do great, best of luck and take care!  judi

Hi Jack...lol   Thanks Judi, I'm sure since you and your husband have been to Dr. Howell you know how unflexible they are about doing anything before the consult.  I was just disappointed because somewhere along the line someone in MeritCare land goofed by not putting 2 and 2 together about my previous surgery and Dr. Monson not being able to do this one because of it.  I've already had the "wait" for my consult with one surgeon and now I'm on my second "wait".  I'm trying to understand why they won't let me pick a date but its not really working.  I've had a consult with one surgeon, had my paperwork sent in and approved.  I know I haven't met Dr. Howell yet but I've done all the steps besides that one thing so I would think there could be a "special cir****tance" for someone like me.  Once again it wasn't my fault with all the paperwork and people I have already seen, filled out,  that not one person figured out I couldn't go to Dr. Monson.   I know complaining about it isn't going to get anything done but sometimes its just nice to talk to "complain to" someone that understands what your going through and you've been great about listening     thanks  PS...When I had talked to his nurse right before he went on vacation she had told me they are booking end of July and he had about 12 letters out to insurances for approval- thats 12 people that are ahead of me...whine, whine....lol

Dr. Monson's nurse faxed mine in also and they got it that same day.  I'm not sure why Garcia's nurse didn't fax, maybe your insurance required something different?  I am stuck between the 2 Dr.s - Dr. Monson and Dr. Howell.  I will be having Dr. Howell do my surgery but Dr. Monson was going to and it was him that sent in for my approval.  I now have to wait until my appt. with Dr. Howell on 6/28 to make my surgery date, even though I was approved last Friday.  It's nerve racking for me because I'm a para at the local school and really wanted to get this done this summer so I wouldn't miss so much work and had time to heal.  I know that Dr. Howell is booking late July early August right now so by next week I'm sure I'll be in August, which is when school starts.  I tell ya, anyone who says this is the "easy" way out is an uneducated fool...ughh!!  One thought for you is you could call Dr. Garcia's office and just see where he is booking right now to give you a feel for when you can expect to have the surgery?  Also, you can call your insurance and see when their time limit to answer the request is up?  I know Medica had 10 "business" days to answer mine.  Hope this helps...