??? for other Lilly employees...

Hey guys & gals! For those of you who also have Anthem, I'd appreciate it you wouldn't mind sharing with me if they covered any at all of Lasik vision correction and/or plastic surgery. For the portion they didn't cover (especially with the plastics), how did you pay for it? I'm considering my 401, but wasn't sure which way would be better; a loan on it or a hardship deductible. Right now, I'm leaning toward a loan. Yeah, I know, the hardship wouldn't have to be paid back but I think Uncle Sam keeps 10% off the top and then charges you 20% at tax time. So...30% as oppose to ~10-15% interest on a 5 yr loan. At least, that's how a guy in my department set up his loan ($ used for a house, not medical). What do you think? CC is going to take care of a big chunk of the Lasik so not too worried about it...of course, if Anthem would pick up any of the tab, I'd be happy! You can contact me though here or at work. I'm the Sherri L Johnson in notes...or you can just put SJohnson. Thanks a bunch! Sherri

Sherri, I don't work at Lilly nor do I have Anthem...but I had Lasik 4-5 years ago. Along with WLS it was one of the best things I ever did for myself. I went to TLC-The Laser Center in Castleton. It was $2400 per eye, but even though my insurance didn't cover, they allowed a discount of $1000 per eye. It included a lifetime guarantee that is good nationwide. Dr. Waltz was wonderful. I would do it again in a heartbeat even if it cost twice as much. I love being free from glasses/contacts, even though I do have my reading glasses (I'm way over 40). Do watch out for a couple of "side effects." I had trouble going to bed at night for a couple of months. I would climb into bed and couldn't go to sleep. I kept feeling like I was forgetting something. It was the absence of my contract lens removal and cleaning routine. Then in the mornings, I can't tell you how many things I knocked off the nightstand grasping for glasses that were no longer there. Best wishes on your Lasik. Annette

Annette, Thank you. At least I won't have your 'side effects'. I've never wore contacts. I also don't keep my glasses by my bed. I don't wear them here at home usually. Yes, it makes things a little blurred...but not to the point of not functioning I guess...lol Sherri

Sherri, I am not a lilly employee however I have anthem, as far as plastic surgery I do know if your doctor documents it correctly they will pay for a tummy tuck.... mine already checked and once my DS is done and then 12 months out if the skin fold is documented as a medical problem...ie; moisture, soreness etcl. they will pay for the plastic surgery!!! I can't wait to meet everyone on Saturday!!!