State of Maine considering elimination of coverage for gastric bypass

The state of Maine could start refusing to pay for Weight Loss Surgery. (Alternatively, they could start making demands that will make it much more difficult for patients to meet their criteria.). However, below, you can see that they are seriously considering discontinuing gastric bypass and excess skin removal coverage. Whatever stance they decide to make, we all need to be at a hearing they will have on Thursday, January 8, 2004. I am asking all of you, whether you are preop or postop, whether you are just thinking about having WLS, to attend this meeting with us. If you are postop, please consider "giving back", helping those following in your footsteps toward a healthier life, by attending this meeting - bring your before photos !! YOU CAN make a difference. http://www.state.me.us/bms/rulemaking/ The State initiatives list contains the following: MAINECARE BUDGET INITIATIVES Discontinue coverage of certain elective surgeries, including gastric bypass, removal of excess skin (after major weight loss), acne surgery, skin tag removal, rhinoplasty, removal of impacted ear wax, circumcision and bunion surgery. Approximately 4000 members affected. Most procedures that will not be performed are ear wax removal and newborn circumcisions. ObesityHelp, Inc joins Dr. Aslam in urging all of you to attend this hearing. (JC (Jeannie Colter RN,C) will represent ObesityHelp.com at this hearing.)

The hearing time and address posted separately so you can print and have available. Hope to see you there. THE PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD AT THE BUREAU OF MEDICAL SERVICES, 442 CIVIC CENTER DRIVE, ON JANUARY 8TH, 2004, AT 8:30 AM

I am going to try and be there.