Question:
Is a request for more info a reason to be scared?

The first letter was sent to my insurance company, along with a copy of my work's policy covering gastric bypass for morbid obesity. I have a BMI of at least 60 and many comorbids. A co-worker of mine with the same kind of information received his approval in only one day. The insurance comp. now says they sent a letter to my Dr. on Friday for more information. Is this something to worry about? I am really scared that I will get denied and impatient all at the same time. Sorry so long.    — Stacey C. (posted on April 29, 2002)

April 29, 2002
Hi there. When the insurance company requests more information, it only means that they cannot make a determination based on the information that they were supplied with originally. It doesn't mean you're out of the game :) Hopefully you will hear soon after your doctor gets the insurance company what they want. Sometimes it's information like how long you have been MO, past diet attempts, etc. I know how nerve racking it can be waiting on approval! They lost my papers the first go-round, lol. Good luck to you! :)
   — [Deactivated Member]

April 29, 2002
I wouldn't worry too much. I know, harder said than done. I had the same thing happen to me. It turns out all the insurance company wanted to know is if I had my morbid obesity diagnosed within the six months prior to getting on their insurance (which I hadn't). I had the insurance on 3/1/01 and a consult 5/15/01. I also didn't have a doctor supervised diet history, I just wrote down all of my attempts. Good luck.
   — Dawn H.

April 29, 2002
Hi Tracey. I DEFINITELY understand how you're feeling. My insurance company requested additional information which turned out to be the request for a pulmonary clearance, psych. exam, and nutritionist eval. The good news is, very shortly after they received it, I was approved. I know you are on the end of your seat but stay positive and keep coming to this site. (at least that's how I made it). Good luck on your journey.
   — lturman