insurance approval

how long does it take to get approved through bcbs IL hmo & what are their requirements for the surgery? my bmi is 54.6 co-morbidity is arthritis in my knees.

Probably the first thing your surgeon's bariatric coordinator will do will be to go find out and then tell you. Edited to add: Mine had this lined up before my first appointment from info I gave them at an info session.

Typically insurers require consultations with a psychologist and a dietician, and tests like blood-work and chest x-rays. Often they can require a medically-supervised diet where you visit the doctor for weigh-ins monthly for 6 months or so prior to surgery, but the time varies and some do not require this. (If they do require it, you're fine as long as you don't gain weight, and you don't have to worry about losing too much).

Hi! Your best bet is to call the number on the back of your insurance card and ask what the requirements are. They can vary.

My insurance was BCBS of Massachusetts, and they approved it within a week after when the doctor submitted the paperwork. But I had to call to find out. I didn't get the approval letter from then until weeks after the surgery! (They scheduled the surgery before getting approval)

I'd suggest waiting a week to 10 days, and then calling them and asking about the status.

best wishes,

Carol

My approval came fast because the coordinator had made sure that I'd taken every step and fulfilled all criteria.

Every insurance policy can be different because employers put their own requirements and riders on their policies. The only way to know is to call the number on your card and find out what your particular policy requirements are.

Thanks,going to call them.