Question:
If BMI is <40, do the co-morbidities have to be of 2 years duration

My BMI has been documented at just under 40 for the last 5 years and my cholesterol has been borderline high (220 or so) and BP is also borderline high. I have not been medicated for either things. Last week I saw a dr. to check, and my BMI was 39.75, and cholesterol was 275, bp was 154/104. she immediately put me on meds. My question is, do the co-morbidities have to have been for 2 years? I can just see BCBS saying that I now have to wait 2 more years and keep my BMI at least 35 because my co morbidities just occurred.    — ajordan (posted on September 8, 2008)

September 8, 2008
I have BCBS of TN. and they covered my surgery due to sleep apnea because my BMI was not high enough for the past 5 years. I had to be tested for sleep apnea and as soon as it was documented that I had it the insurance ok'd the surgery. This was the only co-morbidity I had. They should cover any co-morbidity even if you just found out about it. Or at least they did for me. Good luck!
   — AprilJM

September 8, 2008
I have BCBS and was diagnosed with high blood pressure during my testing (1 month) before surgery and was approved- Good Luck- hopefully you will have the same!
   — LVSissy08

September 8, 2008
I have BCBS and no problems getting apporved. You had co-morbidities, however, you just got the medications for them. You should be approved.
   — Toby2

September 8, 2008
It depends on your insurance and employer. Only comorbity I have is asthm and GERD. Asthma only acknowleged because GERD can exacerbated it. No HTN or elevated cholesteral
   — urbrat2

September 12, 2008
You'll probably get approved,but you should get on a strong "liquid" vitamin / mineral supplement like VEMMA, that will help to get blood pressure and cholesterol down. Go to www.TrySomeVemma.com
   — [Deactivated Member]

September 13, 2008
I have BCN and they approved my VSG surgery without requiring me to have documented six months of medically supervised diet. I have Diabetes and sleep apnea. My BMI is over 50. You can call your insurer and they will send you the requirements for approval ahead of time.
   — AlmaRene