New Around here & State Merit Insurance

I'm new around here.  I finally decided to "take the plunge" and work on having weight loss surgery.  A few years back, I asked my rheumatologist what he thought about it and I was told "no" and there was no further discussion.  It's unfortunate, as my insurance at the time would have covered it.  This past fall, I had to find a new rheumatologist (old one closed his practice) and when he mentioned my weight, I took it as an opening to ask for an opinion on weight loss surgery.  New rheumie said "go for it!"...so did my internist and nephrologist.  So, I'm working on it.  I have signed up for the next "rah rah" seminar (that they require) at Emory in May.  I'm also trying to take a proactive role for the insurance.  I have United Healthcare HMO through State Merit (Cobb County school system).  I know it says "no treatment for obesity" but this isn't for obesity...it's for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, proteinuria, plantar faciitis, etc.  I will hire an attorney if I have to.  Anybody have any experiences with State Merit they would share?  The good, the bad and the ugly...   Thanks for any advice! Sincerely, Elli in Marietta

All state plans do not cover it.  You'll have to fight with the state about it.  This has been a long standing problem.  We got many calls weekly at our office for state employees and there is not coverage.  The best thing that can be done is to get a LARGE group together and get the state to change the policy.  

If that's what it will take, I will try it.  When I talked to Emory the other day, I asked the woman if she knew of any state employees that were successful in fighting.  She said there is a group of people now, working on it.  Of course, she can't give me names or anything.  Maybe I'll find some people when I go to the meeting on May 15th. Thanks! Elli

I had surgery at Emory on Jan 7.  They were wonderful!!!! Can't really answer regarding insurance coverage but did want to respond concerning Emory.  My Doctor was Dr Sweeney and I could not be more pleased.  I have lost 60 pounds since surgery.

Thanks for the positive report about Emory.  My nephrologist suggested Emory.  My rheumatologist recommended Dr. Champion, but he's not on my insurance and I've got a battle ahead of me on the insurance, it would be stupid to give them another reason to reject the surgery.  I'm looking forward to the informational seminar in May. -Elli