New Blood to OH!

WOW! Kudos to this website, so much useful information! I am new to the scene and to Oregon so ideas, opinions, and suggestions are all welcomed. First a small bit of info about myself: Relocated to Oregon from Iowa last year with my family. Prior to my move I had started the ball in motion to WLS after 2 years of self education about the subject. I got the referral from my MD and made application to a Bariatric Surgery Program. I was initially accepted as an ideal candidate but was told I would have to quit smoking for at least 6 months first, then call and be put on the waiting list which was another 6 months. We already had plans of moving in place and our home sold before I was successful in getting the surgery. Now I am revisiting the notion and pulled out my husband's insurance policybook and was dismayed to find that they refuse to pay for any sort of obesity treatment what-so-ever! (PacificSource, by the way in case you are wondering) So am now reaching out to those of you, tried and true, for advice. What are the obstacles in front of me and how do approach getting over or around them? I am willing to fight the good fight as long as I know there is a chance! Suggestions Please!!!

Hi Nicole; sounds like you are on the right pathe. As for PacificSource, I don't have a clue about them but I am sure someone may. I just wanted to welcome you to Oregon and we are here with you for whatever support that you may need. -Chris

Nicole - So sorry it's taken so long for us to respond. We are going through a dry spell and posting is taking all the wind out of me!!! Welcome to Oregon and I hope you find a way to appeal your insurance. I know some are not worth the effort it takes though - but I can't tell you about Pacific Source. I myself went to Mexico and just paid $8500 out of pocket. It was nice to not have that battle....although if I thought a huge battle would help, I would have done it. Please keep checking back with us. We will pick up speed again here soon! Dina

Hi Nicole, I just wandered over from the California site. Welcome! I will be moving to Oregon next year myself! I'm trying to make sure that I have my surgery before the move, then we need to live within a 30 mile radius of Portland, where Kaiser is. I wish you a lot of luck with your insurance company. I know they can be difficult to work with. I'm sure that someone will have some good advice for you here. Any suggestions for me concerning a safe, quiet city to live in? My husband will be retiring and we would love to live the rest of our lives in Oregon. Joy