VZW Cigna no longer pays for gastric bypass

Well,  I guess we could have guessed it but I found out today that as of 1/1/08 Cigna (at least the one Verizon Wireless has) no longer pays for Gastric Bypass surgery.  They said they will cover those who are already in the process and the proces wont be complete until after 1/1/08 but all new applications will be denied as this is no longer a covered benefit.  I'm so thankful to GOD that I was able to have the surgery done when I did and so many of my friends were able to take advantage of it.  Let's just pray for all the others who have been researching the surgery but have not taken the next step yet.  GOD will provide a way, stay encouraged.  Thanks for listening.  Hope everyone is doing well.  I miss you all!!! Robin

This is so sad!! I wish they did not do this because so many people need this surgery!! I will keep praying that God make a way for those that will not be able to have the surgery per CIGNA. Have a good night.

That is so terrible!  Thank goodness you are already scheduled!  I am a week out today and so thankful for my decision to go through with it.  I am down 18.5 pounds already!

 

I hope that others who have this insurance will find a way to have their lives changed as I have. Keep trying no matter what, there will come a way.

its a sad story. LOTS of insurance companies are going this route. Something needs to be done at a higher level to encourage companies to WANT to cover the procedure!

why don't these insurance company's realize that it would be more coast effective to pay for the coast of bypass surgery then to treat the lifelong effects of obesity?

I just have to shake my head & wonder "WHY?" Robin & I were very lucky to have gotten approved & had our surgeries this year. It just makes me sad and mad for those I know that want this surgery and now can't afford to have it!  It's true that it's not 100% and some people don't follow the rules so they go right back to where they were before, but there are also the majority who DON'T! Ones like us that are working hard one day at a time to get to their goal of a healthier, happier life. Keep praying for those who want & need this tool - as Robin said, GOD will provide a way! Hugs to all - Hellen