Insurance woes

Well, looks like I'm going from "hoping to have surgery" to not having surgery.  Last night I found out that DH's work is changing insurance companies on January 1st.  The one he has now was all set and approved the surgery and all the appointments. 

This one doesn't pay for it.  I can't imagine why a Maine company would contract with Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina???

He just doesn't get it, he said "we'll just have to start dieting and get some more exercise."  Wow, wish I'd thought of that before! 

Well, you can guess what the "D" in DH stands for this morning, and it isn't darling.

I'm so sorry to hear that the "new" insurance wont pay for the surgery.  That has got to be so frustrating.  I know it would have driven me mad, because its so hard to just diet and exercise on your own without having the "tool" to help you.  Keep your chin up and keep trying to get them to pay for it or something.  I know it sounds easy for me to say, but really I don't know what else to say.  Hang in there maybe something will change.  Hugs...Angela

Thanks, I know things happen for a reason.  Just feeling sorry for myself right now and figured it better to talk here with you guys than eat chocolate!!!

I am so sorry to hear about your insurance problems, do not give up hope, I went through the same problems and after 3 years I finally had the surgery.  You can try to appeal the decision of the insurance, if that doesn't work and they say that they just don't cover have your husband go to his employer and try to get the policy amended.  Employers choose what is covered and not covered on their policies if you make a case for your self they may see that it is worth having it covered.  My policy covered smoking cesation, marriage counseling and elective abortions but didn't cover the surgery, when I pointed this all out to my employer they went to bat for me and had our policy amended.  So please don't give up hope, this may just be a minor set back.

That is great advice, thank you.  I have a call in to his HR department, because before they have everyone sign up for this, they need to know what they are doing to their employees.  It may be cheaper each week in the paycheck, but in the long run may cost a lot more.

explain to your surgeon your insurance problem and maybe they can get you done before the Jan. 1

I think everyone has given you good advice!  Just keep pluggin away at them and maybe they can change the plan.  I would appeal, if needed, and contact HR.  It's a tough road, but you can do it!  Good luck and keep us posted!

I wonder if the new insurance doesn't cover WLS what else doesn't it cover?
I'm sorry you are going through this trouble. How far are you in being ready for a meeting with the surgeon? I'd contact NESurgical associates and see if any of the 3 doctors ( Toder, Clough, or Huang)  have an opening or if you can be put on the cancellation list prior to the new year.