Question:
Do you think I will qualify?

I am 24 years old 5'8" tall and I weigh 243. My first visit is today with the counselor at Neweigh. I am borderline for being 100# over my ideal weight, but I do have a few co-morbids. I have Asthma, and a herniated disc in my back that I got from a car accident over a year ago. It has been giving me nothing but trouble. My Nuerosurgeon told me he that my back would heel on its own, but if I lost about 90 lbs it would heal alot faster. I was like yeah right. That is when I decided to seek WLS. A friend of mine had WLS and is doing great. I hope that everthing goes well today. I appreciate any and all feedback. Thank You    — Tabitha M. (posted on February 14, 2003)

February 14, 2003
According to the BMI calculator on obesityhelp.com., your BMI is 36.9 Whether you qualify for surgery depends on your insurance. You need to find out what criteria they use. Some say the BMI must be over 40, with some it can also be between 35-40 with co-morbid conditions, and thsoe may also be defined by the insurance plan. Still other plans consider 100 lbs. over your ideal weight. Sometimes it is an exclusion. Start by calling customer service for your plan and see what you can find out. Good luck!
   — koogy