Update - Will have to wait on surgery.....

Or so it looks. I am still waiting to hear from BCBS of Texas for the approval (it's been just over three weeks since paperwork went out via snailmail). However, today I went on a second interview for a new job. Based on some of the language they used, both the 'headhunter' who pursued me for this position and I are almost certain they are going to offer me the position. They are even having the HR person contact me on Monday or Tuesday with the benefit information and 'work out all those details'. I currently work at a boating company and we have an employee boat abuse (oops, I mean use) program. Just before leaving the interviewer and I were talking boats and I mentioned that 'perk'. His reply was 'well, I bet that is something you are going to miss huh?' I was shocked at his comment! Today the interview was almost two hours long and the General Manager and the person I have interviewed with twice talked "pay figures" with me. I don't think it would be right to start a new job and then say 'oh yeah, I need up to six weeks off...' I simply cannot turn down an offer from this company, as I currently drive almost 50 miles ONE WAY to work. This job would be 18 miles one way AND ten thousand dollars more a year, 8 to 5 every day/40 hours a week...no more overtime for this girl! It would be very stupid of me to turn it down. I started with my PCP February of this year to get the ball rolling for WLS. I think I can talk him into putting me on some pill, even if it is until February, that is if the insurance company denies me...or even if they approve me for that matter (based on starting a new job). Think waiting about 8-9 months would be enough time to be on a new job before having to take off for surgery? Also, has anyone ever been approved and then waited months, like six or more before scheduling the surgery? Would the insurance company cause a problem with that? Thanks for your input. Michelle

Wow Michelle, you kind of sound like me. I just got approved for surgery yesterday (after a in person appeal) and I had a job interview yesterday afternoon that just very well may pan out (God willing) I told the HR person that I was having surgery in July and would only require a minimal time off if I was hired, she said she did not see it as a problem. I am not sure what you should do in this situation but I would have just told them I was having abdominal surgery and needed a couple of weeks off or start after surgery. Good luck either way for you.

Congrats on your approval Licia and good luck on the new job prospect! I wish I knew if I was approved or not, then I could 'bargain' with them about the time off. This is the companies really busy time of the year, so even if I waited until fall or early winter, the chances of getting the time off later would not be as big of a deal.

Hey Michelle...... Sounds like a BIG Congrats might be in order, but I'll hold off till it's all official. As for your questions...... You could tell then you have to have surgery and you legally do not have to disclose what surgery you are having. If you feel comfortable you could tell them why.... Honestly I don;t think you would need 6 weeks off, but that is just my opinion... I would say 2 weeks off, then a week at "part-time" and by then you should be able to do most non-physical jobs. but ultimately thats up to you. As far as waiting it is my understanding that approval given now would be good till 12/31/06 after that you would have to get approved again. And just cause they said yes the first time does NOT mean they have to adhere to that they can deny you the second time if they want. If I was you I would sit tight till BC/BS gives you an answer and then see where you are then... Hope that helped some.... Best Wishes! Erin