BIG NEWS,BIG NEWS, BIG NEWS, DID I SAY BIG YET?

Nicky, I almost hesitate to answer your question, but yes--my BCBS will pay for the procedure should I decide to have it done. As a matter of fact, they will pay for the procedure at 100% less my $25.00 co-pay for the surgeon and $100.00 co-pay for the surgical facility/hospital. With that being said, I could have the surgery here in my home town with a very reputable surgeon and it would only cost me $125 out of pocket. Now, having said that, I would like to explain my reasons for not having the surgery at this time. With my height/weight/BMI, I am right at borderline at meeting the requirements----but, with my adult onset Type II diabetes, my insurance would cover it, no questions asked. However, after discussing this with my family practice physician, while he would support my decision to go ahead, he does not feel it is the absolute best choice for me at this time. I respect his opinion and will wait some time to make a final decision. I have not read your profile and I am not aware of your situation and what your need is to have this surgery---but I am going on the assumption that you do need the surgery and that you meet the standard requirements for it. I have seen many people who have made attempts at abuse of the system by gaining weight in order to have the surgery, or who have gone for their weigh in, with rolls of quarters in their pockets in order to qualify. I feel that is WRONG. I also feel that those people who have abused the system have made it more difficult for those who TRULY need the procedure done for health reasons. I feel that WLS should be reserved for those who have exhausted all other possibilities and have no other options. At this time, I feel I may still have other options. While I do not fault anyone who truly needs this surgery and has undergone the procedure---I do find it inappropriate for those who do not need the surgery to have it done because they THINK it will be the easy way for them to loose weight. WLS IS NOT AN EASY WAY OUT! I am afraid that insurance companies are becoming more and more stringent in their requirements because so many people are abusing the process and I understand that the insurance companies have to look out for their financial interest as well as the health of the patients that they insure. SO--to sum it up---if someone based on weight and co-morbidities, is in need of this surgery--I THINK THEY SHOULD BE ABLE TO GET IT DONE AND COVERED BY INSURANCE...but if not, they should not. I hope the best for you and maybe through faith and prayer, the insurance company will realize it is in your best interest and you will be able to get it covered. God Bless you in your journey.

Nicky, I am so happy to hear that you should be able to get the money for surgery. This is wonderful and I know things will go great for you. I know you have to make up your own mind, but I do think it would be better for you to have your surgery in the states. I know that some doctors in Mexico are good. But if something were to happen you could get to the one in GA a lot quicker. I will be praying for you. And whatever you decide is fine. Just keep me updated. Julie -30 pounds