Jewelz13
New beginings!
May 16, 2012
My name is Julie Woodard. I am 31 years old and from Texas. I have been doing a lot of research on bariatric surgery for some time. I am excited to say that I currently have the ball rolling towards making this a reality. My current insurance will cover the cost so long as I meet all their pre-authorization requirements. I must first partake in a 6 month physcician supervised weight lose program, in which I am nearing my 5th dr visit. On July 2, I will complete this program. I must undergo a phsychiatric evalutation which is done. I must present two years of medical documentation that show my BMI over 40, which after much research, has been completed. And I must have a consultation with my bariatric surgeon in which he states that bariatric surgery is a medical neccesity. I have picked and consulted with my surgeon, Dr. Ganta of Austin, Tx. He thinks that my case looks well. We will be submitting all the requireed documentation to my insurance on July 2nd. Dr. Ganta says it usually takes 2 weeks to hear back from the insurance, but that we would go ahead and schedule my surgery on the 3rd week in July. I am a cosmetology teacher in a women's prison and taking time off isn't an easy task due to the students clocking hours. I have been fortunate enough to have a boss that will let me work every Saturday till then to create a cushion for their hours. So everything seems to be falling into place. I have a nutrition and excercise consultation on June 11th at Dr. Ganta's office. This is also required for the authorization. I have chosen the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy as my procedure. It seems to fit my lifestyle the best. At this time I have no fears. Except maybe the financial part. My out of pocket maximum for the year is $5,000. My Surgeon copay is $500 and the hospital copay is $500. I will have to pay $300 for the nutritional appointment. Plus the $45 copays everytime I see the doctors. I have secured a CareCredit card with a $5000 limit for the surgery but I am also saving cash to help myself not have to max out the credit card. Wish me luck and I will keep you posted as things progress!
