ugh...insurance issues

Im kinda new here but wanted to ask a question. I was told my insurance covered this WLS then when I called back they told me they didnt cover it and there was a written exclusion. Is there any way around an exclusion? Im a nurse in the KC metro area(missouri side). I was wondering if any other nurses or anyone knows of a hospital (as an employer) that does have insurance that covers WLS? Im willing to change jobs to get this surgery if necessary. Thanks Jan

Jan I am sorry to hear about the news. Exclusions are very hard to get around. I work for VA and have Blue Cross/Blue Shield Federal, it is wonderful. Had surgery about 6 months ago and my out of pocket expenses were close to $1000. I did not struggle with my insurance company like so many have. First write in I was approved for surgery and I had only one secondary difficulty to obesity, HTN. Of Course my BMI was 49 but my insurance company had no problem with the request for gastric bypass. I also believe you can attribute the success of your approval by the office you work with. My surgeon was Dr. Opie in Olathe and I could not have asked for a better physician or office staff. Hope this information helps, good luck! Dawn