Blue Cross of CA - any issues??

Does anyone have any history with getting Blue Cross of CA to pay for WLS - whether RNY or the band? 

I work for an anesthesiologist group and pulled up some data that showed very little Blue Cross clients having WLS.  Now I'm wondering if it's one of those insurances that doesn't like to cover the WLS....

Any info would be appreciated!

I have blue cross of ca ppo and i was denied..i appealed and  i was denied again..i was just re evaluated by my surgeon and he says this time should be know reason to not be approved.. keeping fingers crossed has been a process of over a year trying..

I was just denied by Anthem BC PPO of CA.  My surgeon's office hasn't received the official denial letter yet, but are planning on appealing as soon as they receive it.  Anthem told them over the phone that it was due to my low BMI (at my first consult, I was at 35 BMI).  As a condition of surgery, my surgeon required me to quit smoking, and so I have gained weight, and am currently at 37.1.  They are going to use this in my appeal.  I have co-morbidities to go along with being under the 40 BMI, so I am curious to see the actual denial letter.  I will appeal as many times as necessary until I get my approval!

Blue Cross Blue Shield of California does cover many lives for weight loss surgery, but one of their stipulations is that you must go to one of their approved "Centers of Expertise."  I would recommend that you verify with your surgeon's office if they are a Center of Expertise (probably easier than calling BCBS directly).
Unfortunately, many companies do elect to NOT cover WLS under their plan, but I know that WLS can be a covered benefit if the employer chooses to cover it through BCBS of CA.  Follow the appeals process as provided to you and hopefully that will lead you to the outcome you want. 
Hope this information helps.  I used to work in a bariatric clinic so I am familiar with the guidelines for BCBS.
GOOD LUCk!
Best Regards,
Kim Brown
BLIS, Inc.
[email protected]