Pay for support groups?

Hi Wendy. My first choice is Dr Mehta, I''ve been to his seminars and I had my initial consult with him. I love his staff and he is just 10 or 15 mins from my house. The problem is Aetna will not approve him because he is out of network. Aetna told Dr Mehta's office that Dr Washington is IN network and they will only approve him. I would prefer of course to use Dr Mehta, and I am going to fight for that right. Thanks Wendy, and good luck with your own journey.

Eileen

Hi Eileen; My name is Stephanie, and I had my gastric sleeve surgery June 6th, 2007. The cost of the classes are $499.00.  I really felt glad that you have to go through the classes, so you know this is what you really want, and its very educational.  Aetna makes you go to these classes for 3 months, you have to go to a total of 5 or 6 and you can do three of them in one saturday am.  but you have to go to them so you have them each month for 3 months.  I am very happy with everything with Dr. Washington's office.  why would you not want to go to him?  if you want to call me (732) 830-2243. you are welcomed to call me when ever you need to talk.  Also, these are classes, and then once a month they have a support group meeting.   Steph

hi steph i also have Aetna -- i had my surgery 7 months ago -- i never HAD to go to classes because Aetna MADE me go -- i had to go to 2 support group meetings which was a requirement from the surgeon and both of those support group meetings were free  so my question is -- did Aetna make you go or did the surgeon's office make you go?  but anyways, like i said, i already had my surgery so it won't affect me -- but it will affect other people who have Aetna thanks

I have Aetna.  I had an HMO and had to switch to a plan with out of network benefits because my surgeon did not accept an Aetna HMO.  My plan requires six months of doctor's visits with my PCP which of course were covered by my insurance.  I also had a psych evaluation and visits to a dietician I had to pay for but there is no fee for their support groups.  My file is being submitted as we speak and I can say Aetna has not made me do anything.

HI Eileen

My name is Lauretta and I facilitate a support group every third Thursday of the month from 6:30 – 8PM at the Perth Amboy Division of Raritan Bay Medical Center.  The group is open to everyone and is not affiliated with just one surgeon.  Both Pre and Post ops attend this group.  There is NEVER any charge for the group and you are very welcomed to attend.  Feel free to contact me personally at [email protected] or you can call at 732-324-6025.  If I am not in my office just leave a message.

Lauretta

P.S.

 I am one of Dr. Mehta’s patients and just would like you to know there was NEVER any charge to attend any of his support group meetings or seminars!