Need Help!

I don't know where to start. First off, I have medical coverage thru Pacificare of Oregon. I was reading the fine print, my understanding is that I have to have other ailments in order to qualify. Hmmmm, I'm right at 300+ pounds, my BMI is at 50! I don't "yet" have diabetes, high blood pressure, or any other life threatening health problem... just morbid obesity, isn't that enough to qualify? I'm so discouraged right now, where do I start? ~Roxanne~

Ever been to the dr. cause of an ache or pain? They can relate that to your weight. How about heartburn? Asthma? Anything you can relate to your weight at all? Ask your primary care dr. But be aware they don't always know what to tell you--you need to get on-line and research and find a dr. in your area and one that preforms the surgery you want and make an appointment! It takes a while to get the ball rolling...but you are the one who needs to give it the first push!

Roxanne, Do not give up hope! Find out what ailments you must have and let your Dr. know if you have any, or any other ailment (no matter how small it may seem). I also do not have any ailments other then high BP, I do how ever snore so my Dr. made an appointment for me in Oct. to have a sleep study. I know after you get over the shock of not being "ill enough" you must get determined. Talk to other people who have or are going throuhg wls. Do some insurance homework. Look on the internet. Just dont give up hope Good Luck! Denise

Roxanne - you've already made the most important step by deciding to start the ball rolling. I also have no other co-morbidities 'yet', but was approved on the first try. Of course, every insurance company is different, but they typically should consider the risk of diabetes, high BP and other factors. When you talk to your doctor, remember to mention any family history of high blood pressure or heart related problems. Best of luck! -- Lisa M.

Roxanne, Have you checked out the insurers section of AMOS? Try to find others who have your same coverage and see if any have been successful getting covered - then start emailing, girlfriend! You want to ask people what they had to do to get covered. If your insurance won't pay, then consider self-paying. It's actually so much easier than jumping through all of the insurance hoops - and so much faster! Let me know if I can help at all, okay? Blessings, dina