Question:
Can I have the operation done?

I am 5'8" and weigh 220lbs. BMI is 33.5 Please let me know.    — Ana Z. (posted on June 21, 2001)

June 21, 2001
Ana, I went to the hospital for a seminar and we were able to speak with the surgeons and "Insurance" or not they too said that they would not work on anyone who does not have a BMI of 40+.....they had other restrictions also... smoker... ect. sorry.
   — rinkadinktx

June 21, 2001
Well you could pay for it privately, or check into the Lap Band, they were rumored to make it available for lower BMIs because its so safe. Email me if you want more info.
   — bob-haller

June 21, 2001
my insurance book says wls is covered as long as the patient is 100+ pounds overweight. they do not mention co-morbids or medically supervised diet history or bmi. i have federal bc/bs
   — sheryl titone

June 21, 2001
Ana, everything I have read says that the criteria to meet is a BMI of 35 with co-morbs or a BMI of 40 or more without co-morbs. I know how depressing that sounds but you can always present your case and see how it goes. Good luck.
   — Betty M.