The clinic is requesting written authorization for my laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (finally!)

I began my journey to WLS on January 26, and the surgery should take place in May or June. I've done everything that's been asked of me, except for an upper GI Tract X-ray that's scheduled for this coming Monday. The process seems to have taken forever, and I often felt frustrated by the demands and the delays, but as another very wise OH member mentioned, it gives us time to learn as much as we can before the surgery. There is an incredible amount of information out there, including videos of the various surgical procedures and websites such as OH. Then there are cookbooks and in-person support groups and before-and-after photos and ... 

Thank you for sharing your experiences and your wisdom and your support with those of us just beginning the process.

Alison

It sounds like most of the pre-surgery prep work is behind you. You have done all of your homework and you have a great attitude so you should be very sucessful! Good luck to you!

Thank you! I just hope I'll remember everything -- or at least remember where I wrote it down or flagged it in a book : )

it will go fast now insurance usually approves  within 2 weeks mine took 3 business days  , then its up to the surgeons schedule

Three business days -- that's great! And thank you for your reply.

Whew, finally!!  Six months is the general time frame from Orientation Meeting to Surgery Date. It seems to take forever, then all of the sudden here it is and you're freaking out!  

Sounds like you are well prepared.  Blink your eyes and you'll be on the Losers' Bench!

Mary

Thank you -- I look forward to joining those already on the bench!

I know your pain!  My first group orientation was in mid-January, I didn't get scheduled for my one on one consultation and testing until February, first nutritionist appt. in March then April and one last one to go in May before they even send the info into my insurance company.  5 months of hard work so far to MAYBE have this surgery.  The worst part is that my insurance company doesn't even REQUIRE the nutritionist appointments pre-op.  Technically they could have sent it in for approval back in February.  Can not wait to hear that I have a date! 

You've remembered to keep track of your timeline, which is great. Some day soon you'll look back and see how far you've come. Congratulations on doing all that you have to get to this point : )

The clinic that I'm going through required behavior modification sessions, which the insurance company didn't require. However, this was the program/hospital that my insurance policy would cover, so I grumbled but complied. It will be worth it in the end.