Using HSA/FSA funds for lap band surgery in Mexico
Hello, I have been researching various surgeons in Mexico that perform the LAP-BAND®® operation. I would like to have the surgery done in January 2010. I'm wondering if anyone out there has used their FSA/HSA funds to help pay for the surgery and if so, what dr. did you use? During open enrollment in November for 2010 benefits, I called the customer service line for ADP and the rep told me that it was covered, so I put in the full amount - $5000. I called back today to ask if I could use my card through paypal. She said I could not and that I would have to pay for the surgery up front and in order to get reimbursed I would need all invoices shown in $dollars as well as a letter from the doctor explaining that the surgery was a medical necessity. Well, I'm not dying, so it's not a necessity yet, but I'm not trying to wait until I get to that point. I was previously denied from my insurance because my BMI is only 39 and I do not have any co-morbidities. I am now resulting to self pay. I think this is ridiculous. Why does FSA pay for laser eye surgery when that's not a medical necessity, people can just wear glasses and contacts. Sorry, I'm just upset by the process that overweight people have to go through to get any help. Any information that you can share would be appreciated.
Good Luck!!!!!