ObesityHelp

I recently found out that PEIA changed their requirements back in Feb 2011. I found out from Dr. Nease's office. I was originally dealing with Dr. Shin's office staff, but getting through to them is like pulling teeth and they act like they don't keep up with insurance requirements b/c they obviously didn't know anything about PEIA's recent changes. Plus, everytime I would call them I would always get their answering service b/c they take extremely long lunches. Their answering service even said they were getting aggravated with them. Anyway, I filled out some info on the net and Jackie from Dr. Nease's office called me back and told me about the changes. I was so happy b/c she said you have to have a bmi of 40 now with no comorbidities, but you must loose the 10% of your weight and not gain an ounce before surgery or you won't qualify. I am waiting to talk to her July 5, 2011 bc she is on vacation. Dr. Nease's office staff seems alot more caring and seem to know what they are talking about better, so I am going to them if all works out. I was only trying to deal with Dr. Shin b/c he is closer. I have heard that Dr. Shin is very good doctor, but I have had it with his office staff never answering the phone. I have also heard from many people that Cabell-Huntington hospital is better than CAMC from other people's personal experiences, but I don't know. I am sticking with Dr. Nease if I can.

I was just curious what your status was...if you had the surgery etc.  I'm in my 9th month follow through with my pcp.  Having a hard time losing the 10% also. 

PEIA is very strict, you don't have to have all the co-problems to get approved.
I saw where someone else is going to Dr. Shinn, that is the DR. that did my surgery.
Get your primary care doctor to refer you to Dr. Shinn, CAMC Weight Loss Program (Pre surgery)
they will start you on a program, the most important part is your food log, be honest, spark people is a good site to get started on. This will last for a year, you will meet monthly with a dietician who will monitor your progress, give you support and tips on weight loss, this will last a year or until you lose the 10% of your body weight. These people know what to do and how to deal with PEIA and how to present your case to get you approved.
They also have a medical non surgical program you and your physician may wish to check into
before getting the more invasive procedure.
Dr. Shinn and his staff are top notch.