Question:
What were their requirements as far as getting approval for Lap RNY?

I have a BMI of 48, no co-morbidities, my PCP is VERY supportive of this surgery, she is also a UPMC doctor, I have never been on a medically supervised diet and I wonder if my insurance will deny me for this reason? Has anyone else had a problem with this? I called 2 different Bariatric docs today, and the one said UPMC will not approve without the medically supervised diet. I have yet to even meet with the bariatric doctor and I am already disappointed by this news.    — Tracey N. (posted on June 12, 2002)

June 12, 2002
I am in NH and I had a LAP RNY on 4/15/02. The requirements at Dartmouth were that you have to have a BMI between 35 and 45 not over that. Other than that I was just the regular surgery requirments. I will tell you though that I had a freind that had a LAP n Boston, MA and here BMI was higher that 45 probably 48 or so. It just depends on the hospital and surgeon you go to... Hope that helped.
   — Kristy -.

June 12, 2002
Call your insurance company and ask their criteria for approval. Have you ever been on Weight Watchers? Nutrisystem? Jenny Craig? Those were what got me my approval. I had to show 5 years of previous weight loss attempts. Also, my BMI was over 50 and I had mine lap. Good luck!
   — GGinMA