Just Joined - ThinnerTimes

Doc J · 07-29-2005, 07:44 AM

Hello All,
I have been following the forum for a couple of weeks now and I have found it very informative. I talked to my PCP last week at Sharp Rees-Stealy and yesterday I received approval from the Utilization Review Board (whatever that is).
I have Blue Cross Cailfornia Care HMO. I have made an appointment for the General Education seminar for late August with Dr. Callery.
Here's my question: Has anybody gone through this Utilization Review Board/Blue Cross HMO thing before? Does this mean my insurance has approved it or is that still to come? I want to make sure I have all my ducks in a row.

veroniquetalk · 07-29-2005, 08:08 AM

I dont now about the Utilization Board but I do want to welcome you to the forum! Best wishes on this journey!

LizardQueen · 07-29-2005, 10:39 AM

Sorry but I'm no ins expert. Welcome to the board! It's great to have you here and I look forward to getting to know you!

mpherrera2000 · 07-29-2005, 10:54 AM

Welcome Doc J, I went through Sharp Reese Stealy and the Review board is just to let you know that SRS feel that you are a good candidate for the surgery it has nothing to do with your insurance. Sorry but that is a different approval. Dr. Callery's office will submit that report to your ins. for approval after all of your tests are done. I hope this helps

Doc J · 07-29-2005, 11:19 AM

Thanks, I thought it would be something like that. Next step is the General Ed meeting on the 23rd of August.

Mavisavis · 07-29-2005, 01:04 PM

Welcome to the forum

Marty

HapBird · 07-29-2005, 06:42 PM

Welcome to the LOSERS group!

I was a newbie just over a year ago, and I cannot quite believe the transformations that have happened in just a few months.

Best of luck to you in your quest - please post here or contact us by email or private message if you have any questions or concerns - this is a great support place!!!!

Ann N · 07-29-2005, 08:45 PM

My pcp is at Sharp Rees Stealy also. They originally denied my referral to see Dr. Callery and I had to appeal it. When I met with the insurance person at Dr. C's office, she said that getting approval from the insurance wouldn't be an issue since I had already met their criteria for the WLS surgery when I appealed it. I would try calling Dr. C's office and ask to talk to the insurance person to see if she can give you any feedback on whether there is anything else you need to do. You will meet with her at your initial consultation with Dr. C anyway. good luck and I hope all goes well for you!