Medicare and weight loss surgery

Hi All Rebecca, I see where you stated on one of the posts that you're waiting for medicare approval. I'm om Medicare too and was told that Medicare doesn't even approve weight loss surgery until after it's done. I know this sounds strange but I asked twice to make sure I heard that correctly. Have you had your pre op appt. yet? What have you been told? I'm curious now as I don't wanna have to wait any longer! What about anyone else? Please share your Medicare stories! Hugz, Kimberly

Hi Kimberly: I've called Medicare twice this week and have been told both times that Medicare does not do "pre-authorizations"; the doctor just needs to put in the correct code online and they know immediately whether the surgery is covered or not. Yet, my nurse said she sent my request off last Monday and is still waiting for authorization. I'm really confused. I hate to question her because I'm sure I'm not the first Medicare patient she has dealt with. This is killing me!! Hopefully someone else on here with Medicare who has already had surgery can help us?? Rebecca

Rebecca, My weight loss clinic, CMMC, has dealt with this before and I know that's why they informed me it wasn't "pre authorized" by Medicare. Maybe you should call the nurse back and just ask what exactly they're waiting on from Medicare since they DO NOT pre authorize surgery patients for wls. I know I would sweetie Yeah, I can't wait to read the other posts either!! Hugz, Kimberly

So, your clinic didn't have to send in anything to Medicare? I've just emailed my nurse again and asked her to explain the process. I'll let you know what she says. Rebecca

Kimberly! They were waiting approval from Blue Cross, my secondary, and received it this afternoon! My surgery date is June 13!!!! Rebecca