SELF PAY PATIENTS OF WLS...

Anyone out there who took the self pay route for WLS? If you are willing to share your story I have some questions. Feel free to email me if prefer to answer that way! I hear many stories on the battles with insurance companies and their coverage but don't hear much from the self-pay people. For those of us who don't have insurance coverage I'm sure we all have some of the same questions regarding the self-pay option. How much did surgery cost out of pocket? Is there a finance company you used? Was there a discount if paying with cash? Did you have complications if so what additional costs have you incurred? Is there anything you would like to share about your personal experience positive or negative? Thank you for taking the time to share your experience!

Traci and anyone else who has questions...... I did self pay and, I am happy to answer any questions that anyone has about this option. Surgery cost $ 26,000.00 out of pocket on 11-28-05 I did not use a finance company. The above cost reflects a discount from the surgeon - I do not know if there was any discount from the hospital. (Part of the money I paid directly to the surgeon - about $ 6,000.00 and the remainder I had to pay directly to the hospital - the remainder.) Yes, I had complications. The cost went over $42,000.00. (I was in 13 days instead of the normal 2-3 days.) I can't say enough for St. Vincent's Carmel Hospital. I had to complete a ton of paperwork, but the hospital forgave all but approx. $ 5,000.00. St. Vincent's Carmel was FABULOUS!!! My experience was wonderful. I hated to pay that much, but I would do it again if need be. I will answer any questions that people have - just ask! Smiles - Lisa

greetings traci i, too, took the self pay route at st. vincent's carmel in january of 2005. my surgeon's cost was $4000, the hospital cost was $16,500. the hospital cost included everything (pre op testing, 6 day hospital stay) everything except the surgeon. i didn't use financing - i took the money as a withdrawal from my 401k account - normally a withdrawal at less than the age of 59 1/2 results in a tax penalty. but since weight loss surgery is a deductible medical expense on tax returns, you don't have to pay the penalty. so if you have a 401k, you might want to look into that option. i was fortunate to not experience any complications. my experience has been totally positive. the surgeon, st. vincent's, and my life since losing 271 lbs. is all wonderful! all the best to you! deb

Thank you for your feedback! I greatly appreciate it!