Does Aetna EVER pay for LapBand?

I am coming around to the idea of using Dr Morris Washington in Freehold, although he is not my choice but rather the choice of my insurance plan, Aetna. He is 28 miles away and not altogether convenient but I am hearing some good feedback from you all, and so I am getting more comfortable with the idea. My first choice will always be Dr Mehta in New Brunswick. Now, another problem, all the testimonials I read regarding Aetna is that they wont approve the LapBand. Has anyone heard of them approving it. If they don't I will be looking to switch plans during open season in November.......heavy sigh. Thanks for all of the great feed back so far, this forum is a lifesaver. Eileen

Eileen, I have an AETNA HMO and they paid.  I had the surgery last July and have lost 75 lbs.  It was the best thing I ever did for myself.  I had Dr. Ajay Goyal in Union.  I had the surgery at Overlook in Summit.  I pray you have the same experience. Donna

yes aetna will pay for the lapband -- that decision was made almost a year ago to cover lapband surgery - good luck

They wouldn't cover it for me - but I found out it was because its not covered under my husband's plan.  There are all different plans. So I was SOL.  I may be able to get a rider - checking into it.

I have Aetna HMO in Philadelphia (federal employee plan) and they covered the Lap Band surgery.  I was improved the first time my Dr. submitted my paperwork.  They do check out all of your paperwork and you must fit their criteria.  Check out your benefits booklet and all of the criteria is explained.

Hi DeeDee.........I have Aetna HMO FEHBP, I am a postal worker, are you? Thanks for giving me a little hope, .  I have scrolled through hundreds of blogs here and I see so many people who originally wanted the LapBand change their mind to the bypass. And most of them say it is because their insurance wouldn't cover the Band. (and most of these were with Aetna) I see you have been very successful with your band so far, any complications? I would love to see your story if you don't mind, hint hint, lol. Well, take care and very best of luck with continued success, i hope to join you soon. Eileen

My Mom had Aetna PPO last year and they coverd her Band procedure. She had to pay a portion of the surgery and dr fees due to it being a PPO but it was covered.  you have to check your indiviual plan though because some Companies (your employer) mark weight loss surgery as an exclusion. That is why they dont cover. It all depends on your Job.  I have aetna HMO and opted for RNY because of needing to lose more than 100 lb. but I was told they didnt really cover it, but because it wasnt listed as an exclusion on my companies plan, they had to cover the surgery as if it were any othe procedure.  So mine was paid for completely, I only paid copays to the dr's for my visits and clearances.