Medicare: I have to write a Letter?

Hello, im pretty much new here. Im under the impression after exploring the Site that i have to write Medicare a Letter for aproval, is this correct? Im sorry but im just totally Nieve about medicare, ive only been on it since March. Ive been placed on a list for Medicare aproval at Virginia Mason in Seattle by a person named Mathew, is this good enough? or do i still write this Letter? and if so to whom? any help on VM goings on and prosedures is vey much apreciated thank you. :)

Welcome Ken . I'm not familiar with how medicare works . Usually you go to your regular doctor . When you make your appt . don't tell them it's specifically about weight loss . I did that & had to pay the $97.00 bill . Most insurances won't pay for an office visit to just discuss weight loss . Isn't that stupid ? So depending on your co-morbidities (ie- blood pressure , diabetes , arthritis , etc...) make an appt. for one of those . Then tell the doctor you want a referral for a Bariatric surgeon . Then they (the weight loss surgeons office) evaluate you , etc... & they send in the request . That's the way it works for regular insurance . I may be wrong . If someone knows different they can correct me . I won't be offended8 -) . Good luck Kathy

Hi Ken~ I have some information I received from Carol Pielli, the bariatric coordinator at the Rockwood Clinic in Spokane regarding Medicare/Medicaid requirements. If you would like me to send it to you via email, let me know! Take care! Cindy

YES PLEASE! thank you very much.

I'm kinda in the same situation as Ken...would it be possable Cindy if you could send me the same info? I would be so greatful... -Billie Jo ([email protected])