Question:
I'm not sure if I will qualifly or be approved. I need some input.

I'm going crazy all of a sudden. I'm so up for thought of losing weight and feeling better. But then I wonder and wait,wait for an answer to see if I will qualify or does the insurance company I need this. My BMI is 40 says Dr. Scholton's Office. Co-morbidities include Degenerative arthritis of knees & back, Stress Incontinence(this has been fixed once), Acid Reflex, Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol. I also have plenty of diet history also. And it is not possble to change insurance. What can I expect? Sorry this is so long.    — Colleen K. (posted on May 19, 2000)

May 19, 2000
Colleen, you have "the big two" co-mobidities, Hypertension and Diabetes. With a BMI of 40 and those two alone, you should be a shoe-in, unless your insurance carrier completely excludes WLS. Make sure all are mentioned by your surgeon. Good luck.
   — Duffy H.

May 19, 2000
You have plenty of co-morbidities, and your BMI is high, so health is not the issue. The first hurtle/issue is the will of your doctor and/or insurance to approve the surgery. Before your first appointment, be very firm, know what you want, and be able to recite your health issues well. If you have any printed material about this surgery, take it in with you. I'm not saying pull it out and read it, just bring it. It's a visible sign to your doctor that you have researched the procedure. It worked well in my particular case. Good luck. 9 days post op, 12 1/2 lbs gone forever!
   — Paula G.

May 19, 2000
Relax, I qualified without the stress incontinence or the acid reflux. My insurance is Aetna, not known to be agreeable to this kind of surgery. My surgeon must have sent a great letter to get me qualified on the first go-round, though. If you get refused, keep trying, and whatever you do, if you really want this surgery, go after it. Good luck.
   — rosemary H.

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