Question:
Is a weight management class REALLY mandatory for Kaiser approval?

2-5-00 I am currently in the process of trying to get approval for surgery. My pcp hasn't said anything yet about a weight management class requirement. However I am getting conflicting information from other Kaiser Northern California members who are going/have gone through the approval process. Some reports say that before approval can come you must attend a 10 week weight loss management class. Other reports say that the Kaiser Northern Ca giudelies for weight loss surgery say it is "reccomended" but not mandatory that one attend the classes. This is really upsetting to me. I called to get on the list for the class, which doesn't start until April 14. I was told it would be 11 weekly sessions. That puts me til July before I can even be considered! I have been through so many weight loss programs with no success. Another one would be a waste of more time and $75 for me! Does anyone know of any possible way of getting around this?    — Barbara N. (posted on February 5, 2000)

February 14, 2000
Absolutely yes. Kaiser makes you jump through so many hoops that we should all be considered circus performers first. Not only do you have to take the first weight management class. You must then take a second. And wait a minimum of six months. This is before they will even put your request before their surgery committee. Since beginning the quest for WLS through Kaiser, I have spent almost $400 completing their requirements, and they can still deny me the surgery. I signed up with Kaiser because I thought that the road would be easier. I was wrong. This is a very stressful endeavour and if you don't have the patience of Job, get insurance elsewhere.
   — Kimberly W.