Anyone with Federal Blue Cross Blue Shield???

Hello,

I'm just starting out with this whole WLS process. I'm going to an information session tomorrow night at the hospital I would like to use for the surgery.  I have the Federal Blue Cross/Blue Shield (basic) insurance and I was wondering if anyone here has the same insurance? Were you approved/denied? Any confusion or complications I should look out for?  I called BCBS and they made sure my doctors and hospitals were on the preferred list and they said the next step is for the surgeon to submit the request for approval.  I know I should probably just be patient and see what happens...heck, I should probably meet with the surgeon first! But I really like to be prepared! Any and all information would be greatly appreciated!!

Thanks!

~H

Hi!  I have BCBS-FEP but can't help much because I have standard option and haven't had surgery yet.  I've only attended the info meeting.  I believe with the basic option you only have in-network coverage - nothing for out of network. 

I'm interested in the DS and the doctor I'm interested in isn't in-network.  However, he's one of the best (Dr. Smith in Marietta, GA).  The hospital IS in-network.   From what I've read it seems FEP is pretty good about approving.  Don't know which surgery you're going for, but if you haven't researched the DS, please do before making your final decision.  There is a DS forum here that is a wealth of information, and several have BCBS, including FEP.  Also visit the revision boards to get a feel of what the surgeries that people are now trying to get revisions. 

Good luck!

Gwen

Hi ladies,
     We have BC/BS FEB Standard.. My husband is a postal worker...My paper work was suppose to be submitted last week...When I hear something.. I'll let you know. I'm hoping to have a revision from 17 year ago stomach stapling..to RNY...I have to have open.. My surgeon says he believes I will not be approved...Because I had the surgery already.. If I'm not approved, I believe it will because they do not want to pay for open surgery...
 
My old surgery was not with BC/ BS.. So I don't think that should come into the matter..Please if I don't get back to you.. You are welcome to PM me...I have adult ADD.. I'm lucky if I can remember my name..Ally..OPPS!! No it's, Alizka.. See what I mean???

Thanks to both of you for responding.  I have the basic option and they did say that I have to stay in-network.  It works out well for me because the hospital I am going through is in network and is also one of the Blue Distinction Centers (whatever that means!)

I guess I'll just keep going to my appointments and hope that the approval comes through without any problems.

Thanks again!

~H

I have Fed BC/BS Basic and had my RNY done in December of 2008 at Braix Clinics. The hospital and doctor were both in network. I had to pay a $100 copay for the doctor and $100 for each night in the hospital. I was in for 2 nights, so my total out of pocket was only $300 and the insurance paid the rest.

i have FEP- standard.  i have been told all we need to meet is 40 bmi or 35 bmi with co-morbidities.

we have not been approved but we are being told it will be easy....