Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama

I need help, I am interested in having the Lap-band WLS, but my insurance (Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama) does not cover it, citing that it is investigational. Before I can proceed with appealing the insurance (because I don't have an official appeal letter I was denied at the precert stage) I need to find out if ANYONE has BCBS of Alabama and has undergone the lap-band. So if someone out there has please let me know!! I anyone needs more information on my situation, please feel free to email me or post. Thank you in advance for looking and helping. Chastity

I didnt have the lap band but i had rny and I have the same insurance. They first said it was investigational too. all my doc had to do was re submit it changing a shorter limb in the surgery. Then I got approved. had mine on august 31/04 maybe all they have to do is change a little something. ask around see if they have had to do that for other patients. wont hurt anything to see. Sheila

Hi I have the same ins but I had a RNY lap Oct19th. My limb is 75 so maybe that has something to do with it, also the ins said they would allow up 100. Hope it helps some. Pat

I was considering lap band also with BC/BS AL and got the same run around. However, the RNY is no longer considered investigational. I also did the same research as you & I couldn't find anyone that got approved for the lap band w/any BC/BS. I would ask your dr to intervene & see if there's something he could send in.