Just starting the Process

I am getting a little bit overwhelmed with the whole process for getting approved for this surgery.  I finally decided to go for this surgery the beginning of this month after going to a Weight Loss Workshop at a hospital. First, I was scared that my insurance wasn't going to cover this, but then I found out that it will be covered-90%.   Next, i was worried that my doctor wasn't going to write me a clearance letter for this surgery and after talking with her, she thought I would be a good candidte for this surgery.  I have done a lot of research on this whole process and have spoken to several people that have gotten the gystro bypass surgery and heard their stories and am convinced that this is the right decision for me. My biggest concern is trying to get approved for the surgery by United Healthcare. After getting off the phone with them for a fourth time, I found out that my doctor will have to  send a predetermination letter and from there they will determine.  I was told that I would need a pyscological evaluation, but United Healthcare told me that it would be up to the doctor to determine that.  I have been through my share of diets, but haven't been on one in about a year. I have my weight log from when I joined Weigh****chers twice. I have tried a diet from my old chropractor about 3 years ago, but failed. I also have tried The South Beach diet twice.  I am not sure how to document those diets.   Should I join Weight  Watcher now? As far as a gym, I have not been to a gym in about 6 months due to back problems. I am not a member of a gym, but have one in my complex that I go to.  Should I go get a gym membership now? I want to make sure that I have all the correct documents to send.  Can anyone give me any advise beside what was said on this website?

Welcome!  Almost all of the insurance companies are requiring at least a six month doctor supervised diet.  It wouldn't hurt to at least get that started so that if you do need it - you already have a month or two under your belt. Good luck!

Don't feel bad.  I am in the same boat.  This absolutely drives me crazy.  I have been on every diet you can imagine.  I have joined gyms and Curves.....  I have done WW, JC, NS, Herbilife(remember that one?), Meredia, Phenphen, and whatever else is out there.  I am ready for this but it makes me angry that someone on a committee has to say it is okay.  ??? I guess we will play the waiting game. Sherri

I haven't heard of Herblife......When I was younger  tried Slim Fast.and all it did was make me keep running to the bathroom. ..I know what you mean...I guess submitting the information to your insurance company and waitin for an answer I heard can be nerve racking....I just want to make sure I have all my ducks in a row so they can approve me first time around.  As many of you can relate, I have been through hell with all this weight and I just want to live some type of normal life where I don;t have to worry about the pains in my body due to my weight and  all the weight I keep gaining...