insurance question please help!!!

sirvine89 · 06-28-2008, 01:43 AM

hey everyone im getting my surgery done at staten island university hospital in staten island, new york city. i've been through the whole pre op testing to make sure i can withstand surgery. now im waiting on insurance approval. im hearing from some different people that it took up to 8 months for approval! i dont want to wait that long. i really thought insurance would only take maybe 3 weeks tops.

did anyone wait less than that? does anyone have the Empire Plan (NOT blue shield blue croos) insurance who has gotten the surgery? how long did you wait for approval? someone please help my pre op testing took 7 months- i really dont want to wait anymore!!!!

all answer are appreciated-thanks!!!

ilse72 · 06-28-2008, 01:52 AM

Sirvine, when you hear the 6 or 7 months, they are referring to the time it took to meet all the requirements (particularly the 6 month diet). Though I am not familiar with your insurance, most insurance companies will make a decision in a month or less. Some are as fast as a few days once all the requirements have been met and submitted.

sirvine89 · 06-28-2008, 02:02 AM

ohhh ok sorry if i sound stupid but im only 19 and dont fully understand how insurance works...thanks so much for your reply

ilse72 · 06-28-2008, 02:04 AM

Asking a question doesn't make you sound stupid! Ask away. This site is a great place to learn all about the Lap Band and what to expect. I am new here too...having joined just this month and I have learned so much already. Good luck in your journey and be sure to post when you get your approval!