Question:
Lost appeal and now I have to do 6 month supervised diet, any suggestions?

I just found out today that they upheld my appeal. I have to complete 6 months supervised diet with a registered nutritionist. My problem is that I do lost weight but I always gain it back? any suggestions? If I lose I wont be approved but they have denied me for lack of commiment? I would appreciate any advice... Thanks    — Natalie J. (posted on October 13, 2003)

October 13, 2003
Who sasy if you loose you won't be approved? That's not my understanding of how it works. Perhaps you should get more clarification of what they want from this 6 month period. I think what they are looking for is compliance with restricted eating. Talk more to your Dr and insurance co to see what's up. Good luck in your journey.
   — LMCLILLY

October 13, 2003
I lost 49 lbs during my pre-surgery 6 month diet. I still got approved. I did gain 6 lbs before surgery once I went off the diet! I think you should be ok.
   — Haziefrog

October 13, 2003
I think I see what you're saying. I've wondered about this, too - my insurance company requires morbid obesity history for 5 years and a 6 mo. Dr. supervised diet. However, since I am a relative "lightweight", if I lose more than 15-20 lbs., I will be below the "morbidly obese" requirement and will be denied. It seems so pointless - seeing a Dr. but trying NOT to lose weight so you'll still qualify for surgery. I understand your point - yes, we can lose some weight, but cannot successfully keep it off - that's the problem! I'm afraid my insurance company will require I see a nutritionist, too and what am I supposed to say to that individual - "I'm coming in to see you, but I can't lose any weight!"? What a waste of their time and mine. Sorry I don't have a helpful suggestion about how to proceed, but I certainly sympathize and hope someone can suggest something.
   — Carly H.

October 14, 2003
My understanding is that for approval they go by your weight before the required diet attempt, so if your BMI is 40 or higher at your initial weigh-in, I think you're OK to lose under a BMI of 40. I would clarify with the insurance company and/or surgeon's office, but as a previous poster said, I think they are looking for proof that you can comply with a restricted eating lifestyle. I don't think they are trying to trick you out of surgery.
   — Vespa R.