Lara, with BC/BS in Portland, please read my my last posting to you......

Lara, I am new at this message board stuff, so forgive me if I seem clumsy with it. I have another msg. for you that I posted as a "reply" on my last posting. Is that the way to email you? s.r.n. (rose) I really need your answer.

Hi Rose, The doctor will need to resubmit after the surgery. After BCBS approves the surgery, they should cover the pre-op office visit. All expenses were disallowed first - until they approved the surgery. I hope this info helps. I know it's a worry - cause I worried bunches until they paid (about two months after the surgery). But they did pay for it. Lara

Thank you soooo much, Lara. I'm not sure if I told you, but my scheduled surgery is July 13th. I would like to keep in touch, if it's okay with you. You sound intelligent and have been a great help to me already. Thank you, again. -Rose-

Lara: If you don't mind me asking........what was your pre-op BMI? -rose-

Hi Rose, I don't mind. That's why I joined the OH web site - to help others. My pre-op BMI was 43. (5'4" @ 251#) Lara

Is there an easier way for me to contact you? Mine is 43, too (5'5" and 260). Thank God I found you. Trying to get through this financial maze has been a nightmare for me. You, are the voice of reason that I cannot seem to find anywhere else. The one comfort I have found, though, through the Oregon Clinic.............2 people have ASSURED me that the hospital would NOT let me have surgery if THEY were not sure that they would be paid....(the hospital, that is). Did you ever hear that?

Hi Rose, I believe that the email button at bottom of this message will connect to my personal email. ([email protected]) I do look at my emails as well as this site often (when I'm not visiting with my grandchildren or doing volunteer tax dispute consultations). As far as the hospital assurance - I have not heard that. The BCBS people told me that they have made payments on this surgery in the past. But they cautioned - only for the surgery. The associated visits must be related to a medical condition other than obesity (arthitis, apnea, diabetes, etc). Lara