Is precertification the same as APPROVED?

My paperwork is in, I've called Aetna 3 times in 2 days 'just to ask questions' My first question was directed to 'member services' Q: Is Gastric Bypass Surgery covered under my plan?) A:Yes, if your PCP considers it medically necessary and the surgeon is within the network. (okay assume I'm dumb...) Q: What does medically necessary mean? What's the Aetna criteria?) A: BMI>40 or BMI <35 w/ comorbids. Q: Is that it? Q: Yes, that's it? A: Yes So then I call precertification (which I thought was similar to member services) Q: May I check the status of my approval? A: You have a clause in your 'something' that does not penalize you for getting precertified for surgery? Q: Really? What does that mean? I can set my surgery date? Q: You have not done that yet? A: Well, no. I was under the impression that I needed to get approved. Q: You are approved if you've met the criteria. Have you talked to member services? So, what I got out of the dialogue is that I've been precertified, is that the same as preapproved? Man, I'm confused! Someone help PLEASE! email me at [email protected]

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