Just when I thought ...

everything was coming together, I came home to find out my husband's insurance choices were changed. We know can only choose from United Healthcare programs. We have had Anthem PPO for years and now I don't have a choice of WLS any longer. I am so upset! I talked to the representative from United Health Care and he told me they flat out don't cover WLS. Guess my dream will have to be just that, a dream. I am so disappointed. I had just worked everything out at the endocrinologists and now this. Well, maybe my sinus surgery will be enough to make me feel better and try again on my own. Thanks for listening, Nancy K.

I am so sorry to hear about your insurance. The doctor's offices give you HUGE breaks when you have to pay in cash or they do payment plans. Don't give up. I had surgery 9/3/2004 I weighed in at 251 and today 12/13 I am 187 and my life really has turned around. Look at other options before giving up okay?

United HC does not cover WLS? This is really weird because Oxford Health Plan is owned by UHC and they cover it fully. Did the person that you spoke to take a look at your specific plan or was this is general answer because I have heard of plenty people having WLS with UHC, they may be more strict but they do cover it.

Toya, I couldn't find anything about it in the book they gave my husband so I spoke to the United Health Care rep that was on site at his company for the day. I am going by what he said because he was so definite about it. I guess I will call once we are enrolled and find out what they say. It is such a bummer! Thanks for giving me the idea to call the company - I will do that once we are enrolled. Nancy K.

My insurance doesnt cover it either as of 1/1/2005. My surgeon (Dr. Aranow) said that you can make payments "just like a car loan". I would check into it. Good luck, I know how you feel, my friend. Beckie

Nancy, I am sorry to hear your bad news. Please don't give up, although it may be more difficult I'm sure there is a way for you to have this procedure! Carmen

nancy, take a look at this post from BAF board on OH regarding uhc. http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/member-interests/black_american/postdetail/129138.html?vc=0

Toya, Thanks for giving me some hope! I am just afraid that my husbands company excluded WLS and I don't think I have a leg to stand on if that is the case. I will wait until Jan. and find out. I decided that if they don't cover WLS, I will ask an attorney and find out if there is anything I can do. I certainly have plenty of comorbidities - too numerous to write! Thanks again! HUGS, Nancy K.

Sorry to hear about the insurance issue. Don't throw in the towel. Appeal to the insurance company. If you have other medical issues, maybe they will take that into consideration. Go down fighting as hard as you can to make this dream come true for yourself. Maggie

Nancy Please do not give up and keep fighting with insurance company. From my heart, I believe it will happen to you have this surgery. WE all will help you behind 100 percent until your insruance approved! BIG TEDDY BEAR HUG to you from me Kathy K