Question:
I am in the process and wondering about how hard it is to be approves for insurance.

I have Blue Cross Blue Shield HMO and have already received me letter from my PCP and taken my pre op test as well as attended the other required things on the list. It seem all too easy at this point. Should or will there be road blocks ?    — amykwebster (posted on October 12, 2008)

October 12, 2008
I have Anthem Blue Cross of California and my provider is St. Jude. My PCP submitted for consultation with a Weight Loss Surgeon a it was denied twice (June and July). I appealed the decision and it was overturned. I received the approval late August. They gave me an appointment for the initial consultation the first week of September. Since, I've attended the support group meetings, nutrition class, doctor talk, had my psychological evaluation and one-one-on with my surgeon. All of this was required by St. Jude before requesting the final approval for surgery. I was told this process takes about 7 days. Hopefully this week I should have a final say so. Overall the process will have taken about 6 weeks from the initial consultation to the final approval or denial. If approved, I will receive the surgery date and what ever wait time comes with it. It all depends on your insurance and your provider.
   — loops

October 12, 2008
I have seen people wait 2 years for approval and mine took 10 min. to get approved. It depends if you have all your documentation ready to be submitted to insurance company. Sometimes it takes months to get all your consults in. It also depends on how fast your surgeons gets all the paper work together. I wish you good luck for your approval.
   — [Deactivated Member]

October 12, 2008
I have BC/BS Athem and after talking to my health nurse they provide for us here in Ms. they are the one's who suggested and lead me to the doctor I have and it was a great choice. I got approved the first time and I've only had to pay $1024.00 at the hospital. The doctor was completely covered, and so was everthing else I needed. Head doctor, lol test, lab's. I feel blessed, GOD thank you. I started on Aug 5 with information and had surgery Sept 30th all in 2008
   — LBowker

October 13, 2008
no problem, no worries. i have them as well. my first request was honored. shocked me!!! but my surgery was completed 9/8 and so far so good!! everything will be a ok!!! best of luck to ya!!!
   — peggy R.

October 31, 2008
Hi, I just saw your posting. Did you get your approval? -Darlene
   — dadebrito