Question:
Is it normal to start having tests done before insurance approval?

I have so far had a consult with the dr., had a nutrition class, my psych eval. (passed! who knew hehe), and 1 group meeting with 4 more to go. I got a message saying my dr. had schedueled a test for me. I haven't heard anything from my insurance yet....Thanks to all for responding. Also, this is a great web site and everyone is so great to help those of us who are just starting....    — gonnabethinfinally (posted on January 31, 2009)

January 30, 2009
Sure...Many of the tests are important to your health and welfare and should be done regardless of whether you have surgery or not...But I think it might just depend whether you insurance company is willing to pay for the test or not that matters! See, you've already had some of the pre op "tests" such as the psych eval...That is one test/loop you have to jump thru FOR the insurance co. The nutrition class is another thing they usually make you do ...And again those are for your own health and welfare...so...just ask if the test is covered...Also, your doc is probably confident that you'll be approved! Good luck!
   — .Anita R.

January 31, 2009
YES I DID ALOT OF MY TESTING BEFORE I GOT MY DATE JUST BECAUSE THAT IS HOW THE INSURANCE DETERMINES IF THEY ARE GOING TO APPROVE THE PROCEDURE. I LIVE IN CLEVELAND, OHIO AND I HAVE SURGERY ON 2-27 AT THE CLEVELAND CLINIC. I WOULD LOVE TO KEEP IN TOUGH WITH YOU.
   — specialk219

January 31, 2009
It sounds like your doctor wants to get his ducks in a row. You can not send the insurance co. too much info. It sounds crazy, but this is the time you WANT to have issues with your health, ie: diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol..you get the drift. I got letters from multiple docs, my ob, my pediatrist (sp), my pcp...anyone willing to write a letter for me did. Good luck!
   — kfgates

January 31, 2009
Absolutely!!!! Aetna required that I meet their standards before they would consider me for approval. I had to endure 3 months of nutritional counseling, 3 exams to the pulmonary doctor, one exam with a pscyhiatrist, 2 exams with my cardiologist & numerous exams with my primary care physician. After submitting all my meds, they finally approved me for surgery which is scheduled for 2/16. I began this process July 2008 and I had the mindset that this would take a lot of work and hassle but the outcome is worth it. I'm looking forward to my surgery and to begin living a new life. Hope this helped.
   — Ruth M.

January 31, 2009
Hi Donna...... There are so many insurance companies and they each have their own way of doing things but this is the one thing that I know for sure......The Doc's office and their staff and if you have a bariatric advocate as we do at Dr. Patricia Choban's office know exactly what they are doing and TRUST ME....they are not going to willingly and gracefully put themselves in greater debt! lol Also, If you are on Medicare OR a Medicare all inclusive Plan, the bottom line is DO cover the surgery and that's that. Welcome aboard, and I hope we keep in touch. I am so glad I found this site, I just wish I did sooner. Renee Jobin
   — 1stReneeMarie

January 31, 2009
Yes they do. Ask your doctor's staff if you have any questions about the approval process... Good luck.
   — maria09elena