Insurance Exclusions

Hi! I've been a member of this website for several years, but this is my first post to the message board. My only insurance (my husbands) has an exclusion clause for weight loss surgery and any weight loss therapies. I've had several appointments with surgeons over the years, but just can't seem to get past the financial roadblocks. My daughter in Houston, TX had RNY gastric bypass last December (at my urging) and has lost 125 lbs & gone from a size 24 to size 8. She's delighted with the results & so am I. However, I was wondering if anyone knows of companies that provide loans for gastric bypass surgery. I'm maxed out on my home equity. Maybe someone has been able to break through the "weight loss exclusions" of insurance companies & can give me tips on how to "change their minds." I'd appreciate any advice....

Nancy, For what its worth, the obesity lawyers have been somewhat successful in fighting exclusions. You might want to touch base with them to see if they could help you. The financial burden would be less than the self pay if they could be successful. The other suggestion is I know my surgeon, Dr. Curry, has implemented some type of financing. I can't elaborate on this because I don't know that much about it-I just remember him saying they had it now. That might be another alternative. Good luck! Beth

Nancy, I believe that Dr C has different payment plans. I'm sure there is one to fit your budget. -V

Check out Care Credit online. Just type in their name with the usual www in front and .com after and you will find information. This is what Dr. Curry offers. I was looking into possibly having my surgery done by him and his staff sent me the information. But I agree with the others that you should try to fight it if you can. Also, sometimes your employer can override the decision of the insurance co. Check with your HR dept. Don't give up just yet! Hugs ~~Jaimee

Thank you ladies so much for your help & insight into my insurance problems. I'm going to Houston this week to visit my daughter (haven't seen her since December when she was a size 22..... she's down to a size 6). When I return I am definitely calling Dr. Curry for an appointment and get this ball rolling again. I'm also going to get in touch with the lawyer from ObesityLawyer.com. Just wanted to let you know that your suggestions had not passed me by or that I'd dropped off the face of the earth. Again, many thanks! NancyT