ANXIETY!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hi Everyone!
I have my first visit with my surgeon on Monday and I am scared to death that my insurance is going to deny me for my surgery!! Has anyone been or known anyone who has been denied? I have Anthem BCBS Matthew Thornoton Ins. I know it is different for everyone, but I can't seem to stop worrying about it! Any suggestions or comments would be great, just to make me feel better..
Mandy

Hi Mandy,

You can call your insurance company to inquire about your benefits.  They should tell you what is necessary to qualify for the surgery.  Just call the number on the back of your card.  Who is your surgeon?  You can also ask him/her Monday, but to rest your mind you should call the insurance company.

I really don't know anyone who was flatly denied.  I do know people who have had to go through a six month doctor monitored weight loss program (specifically CIGNA members). 

Don't get too upset until you know for sure

Thanks so much for replying! I actually just went to the Anthem site and re- read the requirements, and I feel a little more confident. Funny how I feel confident about being "eligible" for weight loss surgery...Thanks Again!

Mandy

Hi Mandy,

I also have Anthem BCBS and I was approved within 24 hours of them submitting the paperwork.  I am having the lap band not the RNY but I don't think that that should matter.  Good Luck

Kalya

Thank you so much for your reply! I see that Dr Pacuilli is your surgeon, she is mine too! Good luck with your surgery- Hopefully see you on the other side!!!!!

Mandy

Good Luck tomorrow Mandy.  I'll be thinking about you.

I also have NH Anthem BCBS, they approved me within 24 hours also.  I had called ahead of time to make sure that we had the rider for WLS. 

Good luck

K8

Hi Mandy!

I also have Anthem BCBS and was approved quickly. I also called them right after I went to my first informational session to make sure they covered WLS and from what they told me on the phone I was certain they did. They just said to make sure my PCP initiated the referral and from there the Bariatric STaff at PRH did all the rest! My approval came quickly once Dr. Pacuilli's office sent in the letter.
She is fantastic!
I just had the band. Have you chosen which procedure you're going to do yet?
Either way...Best of luck to you and keep us posted!

Diane

Hi Diane!
Thanks so much for the reassurance. I also made the call to BCBS today after going on the website. I feel much better right now...there's always the little bit of uncertainty with insurance ya know? I am going with the RNY. Congratulations on getting the band! I hope to see you on the other side as well!
Mandy

I have that exact same plan and same surgical group (Dr. Gens), same hospital...no problem getting it approved. Everything has been paid for except the office visit copay.

Good luck.