Question:
Do you need to have been overweight for 10 years to qualify for surgery?

Someone told me that some surgeons require that you be overweight for 10 years before you qualify. I've only been overweight for 7. Anyone know if this is true or if you can override it?    — susanje (posted on November 7, 2002)

November 7, 2002
Susan, it's what the insurance requires not the surgeon. My insurance only required 5 yrs. Check with your insurance carrier.
   — Alicia M.

November 7, 2002
My insurance only required a letter from my surgeon stating it was medically neccessary for me to have the surgery.However, my surgeon had his own requirements.Each surgeon and insurance company will be different.Leslie E.
   — Leslie E.

November 7, 2002
I don't remember if my insurance had any requirement, as long as it was deemed medically nescessary, and my co-morbidities warranted it... as in, if I kept headed where I was headed, I'd get worse until I died! Still I was probably my largest size from 96-00, only 4 years or so.
   — Karen R.

November 7, 2002
Susan, I have heard others say that their insurace required a five year history, and that is what my doctor ask for. I think that most insurances just want the doctor to say that it is medically neccessary. I think that if you call customer service at your insurace company, they will be able to tell you what they require. If the doctor requires you be MO for 10, just try to kind someone else who will not require that. Good luck to ya, I hope that you find the right doctor!
   — poohdotsmom2

November 7, 2002
I was only obese for about 6 or 7 years, and I had no problem. I have heard some people say they needed a 5 year history, but not everyone does.
   — Maria H.

November 7, 2002
All doctors AND insurance companies vary in their requirements. You need to call the surgeon's office and see what they require for you to qualify.
   — Patty_Butler