Chances of Approval- Blue Cross HMO

Hi Everyone, I would like to know if anyone has any experience with Blue Cross HMO. I am 5'3" tall and 236lbs with a BMI of 41.8. I have no Comorbities except depression. What do you think my chances of getting approved are? Also, do you know if Blue Cross covers the Lap-Band procedure or if the have a preference of RNY? Any info would be appreciated. Wendy

BCBS in my area requires a BMI of 40 or higher for 4 years to qualify... if you have under 40 you need co-morbities. If I remember correctly they do not cover the lapband but your particluar policy could... you will have to call and find out. I know here in NC BCBS is "revamping" their requirements for WLS... not sure about where you are. Chances... cant say, just comes down to who is making the decision. I have BCBSPPO and had to go all the way to the external appeal to be approved (check with your plan and see what the appeals process is). I only met 3 of the 4 years for the BMI and have "minor" co-morbidities. I had taken diet pills and lost 100lbs which dropped me below the requirement for 2 years. I have been overweight since I was in middle school so I used that information as well to prove a looooooooong history of obesity. Just get as much information together as possible. I sent in all my medical records from any Drs and hospitals I have been to over the past 5 years.. pcp, obgyn, vascular surgeon, ER visits... EVERYTHING. My surgeon wrote a letter, I wrote a letter and my pcp also wrote a letter. I included some family medical history as well.