Has anyone used BCBS of AZ for WLS?

I have BCBS of AZ and it covers WLS. I was wondering what your out of pocket costs were/are? Thanks in advance for your help

I did. My plan had a special $1000 bariatric access fee in addition to my deductible and 20% cost share for in network providers. I'd say I spent about $2500 out of pocket. That was spread out over several months since it included office visits as well as my surgery itself.

One positive was that since I met my maximum out of pocket easily the year I had surgery, my subsequent gallbladder surgery was free; it was still in the same benefit year. So that was nice.

Thanks RosyKate. I spoke to the hospital today and they said that I would have a max out of pocket cost after I met my deductible. I was worried I would get to the hospital and they would say ohhh by the way we need 3 grand from you right now. The lady I spoke to said it would be billed to me and I could make payment arrangements, so now I feel a little better.  I also had to pay the $1000 access fee. I can't have my surgery until June since I am traveling 3 hours away to CA I need my kids to be out of school for the summer, but I am trying to pay as much of the upfront fees as I can now.

Did you get a bill after surgery for your 20%?

No, I got many bills. Everyone who saw me or did tests billed separately. Look at your EOBs when you get them; they will give you a much more accurate picture of what you owe. I got a billing statement from the hospital for $70,000. I laughed because I knew there was no way I actually owed that much, but still...$70, 000? LOL.  BCBS also sent me my authorization letter AFTER I had my surgery. I knew it was already approved, because I talked with the review nurse, but it made me chuckle that it took them that long to send an actual letter. Oh, and they will likely send you a letter that your claims have to go to medical claims review, which most companies do for claims over a certain amount (say $30,000). Don't worry; it's just administrative. Remember that you met the criteria for surgery. They will pay since they authorized it.

The hospital offered me payment arrangements too. There was no money I had to pay the day of surgery, except my copay for an antinausea med I had to take prior to surgery. They when I was discharged, I got my prescriptions filled at the hospital pharmacy before I left; those cost about $6, so that was a happy and cheap surprise.

Just be very careful that your Anesthesiologist and the Assistant Surgeon are covered.  I learned this the hard way when I was billed by the Anesthesiologist and the Assistant Surgeon (who by the way worked in the same office as the Primary Surgeon).  I think it was a "set up" as the same two surgeons ALWAYS do surgery together.   

The insurance company suspected that they all 3 then just get together and split the profits.  It really pissed me off.  I ended up paying my 20% out of network to both doctors.  Just be very careful.  Get it in writing that the Anesthesiologist and Assistant will be covered from them and or the primary surgeon.  Just get it in writing!