Gastric Bypass Surgery Support Group

Gastric bypass (GBP) is any of a group of similar operative procedures used to treat morbid obesity, a condition which arises from severe accumulation of excess weight in the form of fatty tissue, and the health problems ("co-morbidities") which result. If you are considering gastric bypass or have had it, join the community where we share our experiences and find support.

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Amber1968 12/19/2013

How long does it usually take for the insurance company to approve the surgery. I've done everything they've asked, was pushed back for 5 days as they wanted me on the diet from my NUT for 90 days (was at 85)? And my case is still pending. I was hoping for surgery on the 31st, but it doesn't appear that it's going to happen now. Frustrating.

susanq35 12/19/2013

So sorry you are being held up. When I was waiting, I was in touch with the person (at the hospital) who dealt with the insurance company directly.
When I got approved I had to wait for the surgeon's appointment and I had the surgery One week later.
I hope you can get some clarification soon!

bigred2000 12/19/2013

I got my approval within a week of finishing all the requirements. Maybe you could call the insurance company see if there is anything that can be done to speed up the process. Be patient I know its hard but it will happen. Hopefully very soon.

farmgirl392 12/19/2013

I had to do six months of nutritional counseling and jump through a bunch of hoops, but it was worth it. The prep time gave me time to really face some issues and get ready in so many ways. GBS is such a big lifestyle change, that it's worth it to make the effort ahead of time. I think if I had had less prep time, it would have been an overwhelming change all at once. Hang in there. :)

deleted_user 12/20/2013

Its all going to depend on your insurance, I have Aetna it took about a week and a half for the approval to come back and then my surgery was scheduled 2 weeks from then. Good luck!

deleted_user 12/20/2013

Mine ended up being 2 weeks. If you have BCBS have your doc resubmit using STAT and they have 72 hours to determine. I called the insurance company almost daily to see if there was a change in status. Good luck, I understand your frustration completely. Fingers are crossed for you.

Amber1968 12/20/2013

I'm on Aetna. Hoping to have a final decision by next week.

SgtSmith 12/20/2013

It took mine under 2 weeks to approve after I did all they asked for.

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