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I used their offices and while yes it can be hard to get in touch with them at times I can tell you they know their stuff and fight tooth and nail for you. They actually took my case through 2 different insurances when my employer suddenly switched carriers. I would and have recommended then to several people on the board and they have done wonderful for them too!!!

Dont freak if it is hard to get in touch with them or dont hear from them. Leave a message they will call back. Since it is only the 2 of them, well a part time receptionist, they are busy and dont always answer the phone. Trust me Mr. Lindstrom had the surgery and it is a passion of his to make sure people who need it get what they need. He took mine all the way to DHMC. They will tell you if you have a case and work it hard!!! Not pushing one way or another, do what is best for you!! Thats was this whole WLS thing is about.....Doing what is best for YOU!!!!

Not to be nosey, but if one were to have to do an appeal (*crosses fingers*) is this the best way to go and is it expensive?

I'm still waiting for approval...

Walter Lindstrom represented me in 2 appeals against Pacificare, and he won my case.  I trust them completely and even though they may be hard to get a hold of they are honest and reputable.  They don't make empty promises, if your case is a lost cause or they can't help they will say so.
You can do your appeal yourself, but you really have to be ready to do your homework and be really commited to the process.
They are also willing to work with you on the fee. I paid them off in increments over 6 months, and I refer people to them every chance I get. They are awesome!!!

I had a long conversation with him before I even submitted to insurance expecting to get denied because  wanted the VSG adn nothing else. I was compltely ready to start the process with him but luckily didn't need to. IMO its a small investment for the rest of your life. They are the experts and know what language to use to get approvals. If you have to use someone i say hes as good as they come for WLS appeals.

If you do decide to call Health Net, you may want to avoid all the runaround by calling their executive office and ask to speak with the CEO. Now you won't get him, but you will get one of his staff members that handle escalations. It's worth a shot while you are waiting for Walter Lindstrom to contact you. I have the number it is (818) 676-6000. The executive office despises getting member calls so they insist that the problems are handled by an escalation team, and the team has to follow-up with the executive office with the outcome.

Good luck.