Question:
Do you think I will qualify?

My bmi is 38-39 but I'm not sure if my co-morbids qualify. I believe I have sleep apnea (I snore something fierce and often wake myself up - lol), I have disk problems in my lower back and have already had one disk removed and possibly looking at another if I don't get some of the stress from the extra weight off, depression (in remission), knee pain, acid reflux (usually at night once I lay down). I have tried several weight loss strategies (WW, Tops, Meridia, exercise) every time I lose but only to regain it. Any thoughts would be appreciated. I'm just shy of 5'4" and weight 225-230.    — laura J. (posted on February 3, 2003)

February 3, 2003
Laura, While it looks like you may qualify, you really need to look at what your insurance company requires. Insurance policies differ from employer to employer and from state to state. Even if someone has the same insurance company you do, that does not mean that their employer hasn't specifically included or excluded WLS or that they haven't done the same thing for criteria. Call you insurance company and ask them. Once they have given you an answer, tell them you want to see it in writing. They should be able to copy the page they are quoting from and send it to you.
   — garw

February 3, 2003
Gar (see below) gives some sound advise. If you think you may have sleep apnea (snoring and waking oneself up at night are possible symptoms) you should be <b>immediately</b> tested in a sleep lab. Sleep apnea is life-threatening, and if you suspect it you need immediate testing and treatment. If approved for WLS, it will be great to already be secure using your cpap/bipap machine as some docs/insurances require a period of use before they'll do surgery. In any case, it's best to ask your doc for a referral to a sleep lab. Another point, in many cases there are long waiting lists for the sleep lab, so best to get that done and out of the way ASAP. Good luck, and hugs from Joy (HAD sleep apnea...gone after RNY and first 35 lbs. lost)
   — [Deactivated Member]