Just An Update

[WendySoCal]

Hello Bandsters

Just wanted to give a quick update.

I spoke to my medical insurance providers. Here's the scoop:

Option A

1. Lap Bands are covered only if referred by doctor as "last resort" for obese patients weighing 100+;BMI 40+.

2. 6 months of attempted weight loss must be documented by healthcare provider. Preferrably weekly visits.

3. My policy will only cover 70% of the pre-op and op costs. Post-Op is out of pocket.

I informed them that I don't have any one healthcare provider, and that I haven't had one in over a year.

Sooo I was put on hold for what seemed like an eternity....And...

Option B

1. 6 months of supervised attempts of weight loss with a clinic or group (ie: Curves, WeightWatchers, etc) is viable, but only with a 50% coverage.

2. A medical exam report is mandatory prior to the procedure, which includes patient is 100 lbs + and BMI of 40+.

Sooooo...

I opted for option B. I spoke with my husband and I think joining a weight loss group will benefit me. Whether the end result is the lap band or not. If it doesn't work, and I do get the procedure, I will have already adopted a new eating/exercise lifestyle...which will benefit my lap band results. As opposed to just visiting a doctor every week for six months and just waiting to get the referral.

I joined WeightWatchers online, and yesterday (Sept. 1st) was my 1st day. I weighed in (bought a scale :/) at 246 and my BMI is 42. I couldn't fight the urge to step on the scale again tonight...about 10 minutes ago...and it showed 244. I thought it was a mistake...walked away...and then rushed to step back on....I'm 244.

I still hope to post here and have this great support system along the way.

I hope you all are having a great holiday weekend!!

Wendy

[mommyrkr]

Hey Wendy,

Thanks for the update. I have done Weight Watchers off and on for the last three years. The first of which was online and helped me lose 50 pounds. I have family how have lost and kept off 80 pounds for the 4 years. I know it can work. The last year I have been to meetings weekly, and just not lost, so I had surgery a week ago, and will be back at Weight Watchers next Monday. I have really learned some invaluable lessons from Weight Watchers. I like some veggies now, I have a boatload of good healthy, low cal recipes, I have support. I have learned how to live a balanced, healthy lifestyle. I was just too hungry to make it work for me before. But I believe that after surgery, I will be able to do it very well.

Good for you for your positive thinking and for at least learning all you can now. It will make any transistions, you might make later much easier, andjust promotes a healthy lifestyle.

Becki