Insurance Question - ThinnerTimes - Gastric Bypass Forum, Lap Band Forum, and Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy Forum

packerfan · 06-23-2005, 03:45 PM

Hello everyone.

I just found this site today and I must say it's pretty impressive. Everyone seems very nice and full of information.

Now to my question. Is there any getting around the fact that my insurance company does not pay for gastric bypass. My policy clearly states that they do not cover weight loss surgery.

Has anyone paid for the procedure themselves? It's not like I have $30,000 sitting around but if I can get on some type of payment plan I'd probably be willing to do so.

Sorry the abrupt question but I don't to call the insurance company and "mess up" by telling them something I'm not supposed to.

Thanks,

Paul

Jared · 06-23-2005, 04:35 PM

You may want to seek help from the lawyers at obesitylaw.com. Their FAQ says they think it's worthwhile to fight insurance companies that exclude weight loss surgery.

BRITTSTER · 06-23-2005, 09:01 PM

Paul; I'm not sure what neck of the woods you hail from, but the following link has helped me.
http://www.weightforlife.com/
They offer financing up to 60 months. I have insurance that covers the surgery, but used "Weight for Life" in my process and I'm scheduled for surgery on July12th. I started the whole process in late april of this year. The link that Jared mentioned is a popular one as well.

Gatzby · 06-24-2005, 04:13 PM

My insurance specifically does not cover ANY weight loss program period. There is no fighting it if they specifically exclude treatment I hate to say.

I filed my request on the Obesitylawsuit site, but haven't heard anything. I would suggest you do the same, just in case.

It is absurd that insurance companies can exclude a disease from treatment, but will treat the symptoms of that disease.

Gladitsme · 06-24-2005, 05:47 PM

Yo Rob,

How's the WW going? I've got my date now (doing a scared happy dance over here) so I expect to get to be a big loser soon. Funny though, when I met my new PCP, she said I've lost 12 lbs since January. Woo hoo!

Gatzby · 06-24-2005, 07:08 PM

I've maintained for a while now. Now that summer is really here, I put up my pool and am getting exercise by swimming.

It is going well for me.

HeatherT · 06-24-2005, 09:50 PM

I have my first appointment with a WLS doctor on Aug 1, they said it would take about 2 - 3 months until surgery but from what i am reading it can take a LOT longer...so tell me anything you think i should be ready for - because as I see it I should have started the process a year ago as I was ready then but did not think there was any Dr that would take Medicare....

does anyone know how long it takes for approval with medicare?

Gladitsme · 06-27-2005, 11:16 AM

Heather,
I'm not sure about Medicare approval process. I don't know if they pre-approve or not. Either way, good luck lady!