New to this group; so glad to find this "50's" forum

Hello, I am at the beginning of the WLS journey in Arizona & my insurance covers WLS beginning this fall.  My research is pointing me toward VSG, but not sure if the new insurance will cover it.  I'd appreciate any advice, info from you all especially about insurance issues or the reality-based distinctions between RNY and VSG.  While I'm close to Mexico, I don't think that approach is a good fit for me.  
Thank you! Cherie_B

Well, welcom Cherie.

I think you will like it here.  We have a wide selection of different wls.  I had the RNY and am completely happy with both the journey and the results.  The best way for you to decide is do the research on the different surgeries and let you and your doctor decide.  My WLS surgeon thought the RNY was best for me because I had so much weight to lose.  I was not a light weight at all.  Many have the lap band and do perfectly fine with that too.  Just read up on them and make an informed decision.  Good luck and welcome.

welcome a-board
my advice about insurance compaines is:
1) document everything-any time you talk to someone-who what when
2) stay on them
3) don't give up- if they deny you for any reason try again- there are appeal procedures- they want you to go away

research the diff types of surgery -read talk listen--and there are diff surgeons- make sure you feel comfortable with all of the staff and procedures, follow up care etc...

figure out what is best for YOU!

stick around - we are a great group!!!

 As to surgeons -
Many states have online information-  Florida, for ex, has a website to look up a surgeon, and find license info, where he/she went to med school, whether and in what he/she is board certified, and any malpractice complaints.

I look up EVERY doctor I have.   

As to insurance - yes, document and be persistent!!   I was lucky; my RNY was approved within a week.  Of course, I had to go through the 4 months nutritional counseling, psych clearance (annoying) and so on.  It was informative but I think a waste of time.  But I suppose insurance is like a defense lawyer - delay delay delay.  Witnesses (and insurance claimants) move, die, change jobs etc.
Oh am I cynical!  Some call me a smart-a**.   But I mean well.   

I was a bad patient too - I had too many last suppers and gained 25 pounds before surgery, instead of losing 15.  Regardless, I had the surgery and NOW I take it very seriously.

Oh and WELCOME!!

 
I wear sunglasses but do not smoke.

Seriously, these folks here in the 50+ crowd are wonderful.  I am new to this forum, but am finding myself glued to it lately.   Getting used to this new "pouch" is a learning experience.   I do not regret the surgery for a second.  I am beginning a new life, and developing new habits.

Hi girls,
What a pleasant surprise to receive all of your warm welcomes and helpful info.  Having spent some time looking at various photo albums & reading personal stories, I know I'm in the right place at the right time.

You know, I really had my heart set on a vertical sleeve procedure and was thinking that if my insurance would only cover the RNY I might consider paying for a sleeve myself.  While I think that I'd still like a sleeve, I won't be paying for it myself if the insurance will not.  Instead, if I'm going to pay any real $$ out of pocket, I think I'll save it & spend it on a tuck & a lift.  I lost 105 pounds on Optifast when I was 30--my body snapped back like a rubber band with no bags or sags.  At 50+, I have just come to grips with the fact that this will not likely repeat.  I really appreciate the women with the courage and generosity to share their before and after nude plastic surgery photos as they have been a good reality check for me... and they've also given me great hope for life after WLS.  I'm all smiles, thank you.

Hello Cherie and welcome.  I hope you'll stay with us and chat.  We are a great group.  I don't know much about insurance.  I do, however, agree with Jeannie and Margo. 
I had the RNY, that's what my surgeon and I decided for me.  It's been a great life saver for me.  But, please, research all types.  It was a matter of my co-mobilities.
Again, welcome and I hope to hear more from you.
Pat A
 
 

Welcome, the the comfort  zone. The reason I call this forum that is because I feel the love and comfort  knowing that I can be  here and read or respond without anyone  being unpleasant. The people are older and with experience and willing to share an allowing you the be a part of their lives.They are willing to share their knowledge and personal lives.
I'm a newbie here myself Look into the different forums and read an understand the various ways of weight loss surgery. WELCOME
                                                                              Carol

 Carol - you had RNY just 10 days after I did...    I'm glad we both are here.   I also find the OFF forum more relaxing, informative and warm than the others..  And, I don't feel like I'm talking to my daughter.

Hellllloooooo Cherie and Welcome.  I've only been a member since January, but have made many friends on this forum as well as the Michigan forum.  I researched WLS for almost two years before making the committment.  Once I made the committment it seemed to take forever, but finally on 7-16-09 (same date as Jeane) I had RNY.  My insurance didn't cover VSG and my surgeon suggested RNY anyway.  I've lost 33.5 # now and can feel my energy increasing.  I can even get off the floor without crawling to the couch or a chair to boost myself up.  Another WOW moment, along with tying my shoes and cutting my toenails!  I personally would be afraid of the Mexico thing, only because Dr.'s in the US don't want to take on someone else's surgical patients.  I think discussing it with the surgeon's will help you decide which route to take.  Either way, you're on the right track!
I agree with Margo.  Anytime you talk to the insurance company, keep a journal of date, time, who what was asked, what was said.  And if by chance they deny you the first time (I was denied once) you and your pcp doctor both should write letters of appeal.  After we appealed I was approved within a week because of my co-morbidities.  I no longer take my bp meds or my diabetic meds.  33.5 pounds really made a difference.
Enjoy your ride.
Jan

Welcome to OFF, Cherie! You have found the greatest forum on OH as far as a lot of us are concerned.

Please research your choices and you will come to the one that is right for you. What works for one might not work for another...that is why there are other choices out there.

I had RNY simply because that was the one suggested for me by my surgeon. It has worked and worked well as far as I am concerned. I have lost 128 pounds and go rid of a lot of co morbidity's along with it. It is my fervent desire to never go back to what I once was.

Please post often and let us get to know you. There are many knowledgeable people on here and I know that most of your questions will be able to answered on here. I am so glad that I found my other "family" here. And the best part...it is a family that I chose!