BrightEyes
Finally created a profile on this site, by the encouragement of my dear friend Charlene. I have started my journey to successfully lose weight, and take control over my health, and spend a little attention to myself for once in my life. That was a big challange for me, being that I have always been one to put myself on the "back burner" so to speak. Time for me....LOL.
My first consultation with Dr. David Klem was on May 24, 2005, at Central DuPage Hospital. I was very encouraged, and impressed how nice and knowledgeable both him and his staff were about the Lap Band surgery. Already completed all the pre qualifications and testing needed for the information to be passed on to United Health Care Insurance. My biggest problem was getting into the lung doctor, and scheduling difficulties. After completing the lung examination it was determined that I had a form of sleep apnea, and needed to be put on a c-pap machine.
Contacted United Health Care to find out what the hold up is on my approval for surgery. Was told that I am approved for the surgery, however they are waiting on the admission type/place of service and if this will be an outpient or inpatient procedure. I am absolutely thrilled that I am approved for this. If I have any advice for anyone going through this process, be prepared to be determined and contantly contact your health provider to move them along.
Awaiting the approval letter from the insurance so that I can schedule my pre-op visit with Dr. David Klem and schedule my lap band surgery date....Wish me luck!
1/10/05
Contacted the surgeons office today and wanted to find out if they had received anything from the insurance company yet. It appears that UHC needed to know about whether the procedure will be inpatient or outpatient and the location. Surgeons office has already supplied this to UHC and also faxed this on January 3, 2006. So I contacted UHC this afternoon, and they informed me that I have been approved for the surgery they were just waiting on the in patient/outpaitent documentation from the surgeons office. Apparently they have a problem receiving things at their location, or just enjoy stressing people out (sorry, a bit frustrated). This latest gentleman that I spoke to at UHC said that they did receive the fax on January 4th, and that they will be sending a letter to Dr. Klem with in 4 to 5 days. I am telling you the waiting game is truly frustrating.
1/17/06
Contacted UHC to see if approval letter was sent to surgeon. They informed me that I have been approved and it was sent on 1/16/05. I am so excited, I finally feel as though I am gonna get this surgery done soon. Can't wait to make a date, and start on the losing streak!
1/25/06
Got my carbon copy of letter sent to surgeon, from UHC today. Talked to surgeons office, and they did receive the letter as well, but they are still waiting on CPT codes from UHC in order to move forward. Spoke with Geri at surgeons office, and she stated to give another week for Nancy at UHC to provide her with the codes. Geri mentioned that February 20, 2006 is a possibility for surgery. Looks like I am still waiting here. Can't wait until I have a firm date for this surgery. On another note, I went to my doctor and noticed that I am down 22 lbs, it appears as though my thyroid is functioning properly, and that I am doing the appropriate things necessary to continue with weight loss after my surgery.
2/05/06
Got a call from Geri and Dr. Klems office today. She stated that they are going to use the approval letter from UHC, and move forward with my surgery on 2/20/06. I can't believe it, I am so excited....FINALLY! I need to go in for some more testing on 2/13/06 for an EKG, chest xray and blood work. Then I am scheduled for a preop with my surgeon on Valentines Day. Now it is just around the corner.
2/13/06
Went to get my EKG, chest xray and bloodwork done, just need to see the surgeon for my preop appointment on Valentines Day!
2/14/06
Saw the surgeon today, and have been doing liquids for a couple of days now. Surgery is Monday, February 20th.....Almost here.
2/20/05 - Surgery Date
3/07/06
Went for my two week follow up appointment today with my surgeon. I am thrilled, I am down 16 lbs in two weeks...YIPPEE! Have my 4 week appointment scheduled for possible 1st fill on 4/6/06.
11/08/06
I have been absolutely terrible in not updating my profile, and will try to update it more frequently. I have to say that I still feel absolutely secure in my wish to have this lap band surgery. Since I first stepped into Dr. Klems office back in June 2005 and had my first consultation and weighed in at 304 lbs. This surgery has given me a new lease on life. I am currently weighing 222 lbs and continue to lose weight with continual good eating habits and exercise. I now go to the gym 5 times a week, look great and feel wonderful with renewed energy. I have been going to my monthly lap band meetings through Central DuPage hospital, and have made several friends that are "bansters" as well. Keeps me motivated, and also it is encouraging to give back to those looking to go through the procedure.
Photos
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Surgeon Info:
Surgeon: David Klem, M.D.
Insurer Info:
United Health Care, Choice Plus
Was very annoyed by the lack of concern and follow through with UHC. Had to contact them weekly regarding the approval process, and they continually "lost mail" from my surgeons office. This was the main reason it took about 8 weeks to be approved. I honestly believe if I did not contact UHC regarding my approval process, I would still be waiting on a letter from them approving my surgery. I believe if you want it bad enough, you should hound the insurance until they take your case seriously.
