I can't get insurance now because I had WLS!

I'm usually on the RNY board because I've had my surgery on this past Oct 17th. I even managed to get approved with Cigna POS (the HMO) through Cobra. My coverage ended November 1st, 2 weeks after my surgery. Talk about cutting it close! Now I'm trying to get individual health insurance since I've gone back to college and don't work nor do I have time to work. I can afford to pay for individual insurance. I've called Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield and they say I'm automatically denied for 5 years because I've had WLS! The guy said that would happen everywhere. I just got a couple of letters from my former insurance company. It was a certificate proving I have had prior health coverage. The letter was difficult to understand but it reads that it could help get insurance coverage by presenting the certificate. Does anyone know anything about a proof of prior insurance certificate? What can it do for me? And has anyone else had this problem? Suggestions are sooooo appreciated!

Unfortunately, the certificate of credible coverage (or HIPAA certificate) can't do anything for you as far as individual insurance. They are not bound by the same laws that group insurance is. They can deny you for anything they want for as long as they want...including denying you coverage period. My suggestion would be to look into student health insurance.

Can you get insurance through your college?  Many have group insurance available to students for a pretty good price.  I don't think I was ever asked about pre-existing conditions when I signed up for them. Good luck Catherine