NEW AND NEED HELP

Hellom I am new to this forum but I only need to know how to get started with getting this surgery?

First, I'd check my insurance to see if it's covered..it costs a lot of money to self-pay. Then, talk to your primary care physician (pcp). Your insurance may require that you have a documented history of weight loss attempts before they will even look at approving your surgery, so you'll need his/ her help with that.

Definately check with the insurance first...then, start compiling any data that you can on weight loss attempts, any medical documentation on your weight and comorbidities associated with obesity...meaning diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, arthritis or joint disease, etc. Get a file going, make copies of anything you can. Go to your primary care physician and seek a referrral for the surgery as well. It is kind of a back and forth on fitting the pieces together, and it can be a long and crazy process, but in the end it is worth it. I don not know where you are located in Ohio...do you have a center that you have been looking at for surgery? See if they have an information session or packet that can help guide you through the process. Some places are very helpful. I hope this helps. Document document document, and for anything you have to send in, make copies because somehow things get "lost" on peoples desks, in the mail and out in fax land...that way you have another one handy to send again. I am hoping your process is a smooth one. You can always come here for support and advice, there is always someone here who can help you!! GOOD LUCK!! Valerie