dutchgirl

I posted yesterday that I was denied a bariatric surgeon consult because I needed to complete a 6 month supervised diet with a physician.

First off, I was wondering if they can deny the consult because of this. I know they can deny it for the surgery, but I'm not sure about the consult. Anyone who had any experience appealing this would be helpful..

Secondly, did anyone who had done the required 6 month med. supv. diet have any problems getting approved once completed.

Thirdly, is there anything during this process I should be aware of? My PCP was surprised I wasn't approved for the consult and feels I should have the surgery. He is really making sure everything is documented, I.E. my hypertension, back pain, depression, acid reflux, etc.... If there is anything else anyone thinks is important to the documentation?

Also, I have Health Net and when I called about the criteria to meet for surgery, besides the 6 month diet and the BMI, it stated that the patient must have been obese for 5 years. Has anyone had this be an issue? I mean I'll have only been seeing this doctor for 6 months. Does the doctor just need to document that I have said how long I have been obese?

Please, please, please any help or information would be appreciated and would also help me to keep my focus off how devastated I am about how I now have to wait another 6 months...I am just so depressed about having to go through another summer this way...

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Sandy
248/goal 140