self pay

HI, I was just informed by Mona from SB that RWMS won't accept self pay for GBPass. I am talking about cash up front for the surgery. That is really strange. You can do that for lapband, but I really am sure that I would be a better candidate for GBP. Is this the same for all hospitals in NE? I was also looking into going to see Dr. Goering in G. I.. Am I going to be forced to go for lapband? I am on Medicare and as of 3/06-you have to go to one of their Centers of Excellence in order for them to pay and there are none in NE. Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

I'm sorry I don't have any info for you, but that's too bad that Medicare has changed their policy. Do you know if any hospitals in your area are trying to GET the certification needed to become a 'center for excellence'? You would think that perhaps they may be in the process of getting certified ??? If they are, then perhaps all you would have to do is wait a few months til they BECOME centers for excellence. It wouldn't hurt to try to find that out, don't you think? GOOD LUCK tho! whatever happens. Sally in Lincoln... who has insurance thru work.

Hope to see you Tuesday! If you come to town early call my cell 539-5712. Mona is coming in the afternoon so we will more than likey be "shopping". haha Beth

Is the center in Junction City Kansas one of Medicares Centers of Excellence? That is not much further than SB. I also am Medicare and I had my RNY done in SB 1/19/06. I guess I am lucky that I got things going when I did. Hazel