Hi, my name is Sandy and I'm new here. I've been researching like crazy to learn all I can, I want to be well educated going into this so there are as few surprises as possible. My pulmonologist has recommended wls and my pcp is on board with it too. I've been to 2 educational gatherings at different hospitals and am scheduled for one at Sacred Heart in Springfield, which is in network and has the certification my insurance requires. I was making my ins co nuts with all my questions about coverage and criteria so they finally assigned me a case worker. My BMI is 48, I have diabetes, high bp and sleep apnea, so there is little doubt I would qualify. It's kind of scary to be even considering this, but exciting at the same time. I'm really looking forward to being healthier!
It is a litle scary but I have never know anyone who had GPS and regretted it.
I am new to 3FC but I guess I can say WELCOME!
I live in Salem, where are you?
Our insurance requires 6 months of pre surgery counceling and lossing 10% of the weight. I am in the program and have lost the required weight but I am still not sure as I have two joint replacment surgeries comming up.
Does your insurance cover reconstructive surgery if you end up needing it?
Hmmmmm, that was one question I didn't think to ask of my insurance. I think if I have an ongoing problem with sores under the skin flaps that they will, but I will have to inquire about the reconstruction. I figure I will have plenty of skin to spare after weight loss, but I'd rather that than some of my current health issues.
I have some hoops to jump through, but not an awful lot. It more depends on what the surgery center requires with regard to weight loss, etc.
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[QUOTE=nancymae;3425195]It is a litle scary but I have never know anyone who had GPS and regretted it.
I am new to 3FC but I guess I can say WELCOME!
I live in Salem, where are you?
Our insurance requires 6 months of pre surgery counceling and lossing 10% of the weight. I am in the program and have lost the required weight but I am still not sure as I have two joint replacment surgeries comming up.
Does your insurance cover reconstructive surgery if you end up needing it?
Welcome to the site Sandy. I'm glad you found an option that looks like it's a good one for you. There was a very active community of WLS folks here awhile ago but I haven't checked in some time. I hope you find a wealth of knowledge here.
Welcome and good luck on the journey!
we are all here for each other so feel free to ask any questions!
I have started a blog for support too http://tryn2bfit224.blogspot.com/
Hmmmmm, that was one question I didn't think to ask of my insurance. I think if I have an ongoing problem with sores under the skin flaps that they will, but I will have to inquire about the reconstruction. I figure I will have plenty of skin to spare after weight loss, but I'd rather that than some of my current health issues.
I have some hoops to jump through, but not an awful lot. It more depends on what the surgery center requires with regard to weight loss, etc.
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I actually think it's good to have some screening and requirments as surgery is a serious thing... I was wondering if all surgons and insurance co have similar requirments. Our insurance does not cover post weight loss cosmetic surgery of any kind.
As far as loosing weight, I know I feel better every day! I will cross the surgical option "road" after I get my hip and knee repaired...
Just starting my journey....
Dhani 
