Bariatric weight loss surgery has long been considered effective , so I was dismayed when I recently read about its relatively high denial rates  If you or someone you know is on the path to bariatric weight loss surgery, then this post will help you plan, budget, and avoid problems. The key theme is effective management of the “long-game”; stay on top of the many steps during the months- and sometimes years- long process.

People often hate dealing with their health plans. I help them do just that for a living, so I see it up close. When I help clients on family plans, I often find that people overlook their plan role and permissions. Consider: You’re blocked from your teenager’s health information. You’re the family planner, but your insurer won’t let you complete an important task. You’re caregiving for an elderly parent or relative, but can’t access their critical information in a pinch. All