BCBS a question....

I have a friend that is a case worker in a local hospital. She told me that BCBS is going to stop paying for all WLS after the first of the year. Anyone that works for BCBS know about this and can answer this question/concern better?

I can answer this for you. I do work for BCBSSC, and they have decided to quit authorizing this surgery after December of 2004. Their reason is that there is no Center for just bariatric surgery in the area. I live in Columbia, and that is true here. We don't have a Clinic devoted just to WLS. Atlanta, Georgia, on the other hand, does. So hopefully this decision will be a mute point if you are having your surgery done in Georgia. I am going to try and get mine done before the end of the year, or fight with MY OWN INSURANCE COMPANY AND EMPLOYER for it. That should be fun

So, if I dont get my paper work done before Dec its a no ? But what if I did go to Georgia if it took longer then Dec? Would I stand a chance then?

It's not all WLS, as I understand it, only gastric bypass. Does anyone know if BCBS in South Carolina will cover the lap-band if its medically necessary?

Pretty sure they won't, but its worth asking. If not and you are wanting Lap Band, I know a great doctor in Mexico !