BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD FEDERAL

Blue Cross Blue Shield is known for their approval process. My dad sent in his papers for aproval a year ago and got the go ahead a week later. He had RNY though. I'll keep my fingers crossed!

i have the federal program and was covered for my vsg last april 24th, i have lost 84 pounds since then. no waiting period, i do have high blood pressure but that was it. hospital one hundred dollars for 4 day stay, and surgeon was 10% upfront. good luck. they will send you and your surgeon an approval letter about 3 weeks before your surgery. good luck, laurap.

Thank you Laura. How come you had to stay in the hospital for 4 days? Did something go wrong or was that the amount of time they required for you after surgery? I think the day I receive approval will be one of the top 3 happiest days of my life!

In October 07, I was told by the states doctor that VSG was not covered 99% of the time.  I went as a self pay to Mexico (Dr Alvarez), came home and filed an "overseas claim".  Everything was reimbursed but a $70 copay!  Evidently they do cover it, but just have to wait on pins and needles after surgery to find out.  Although, since someone said the plan changed in 2008, looks like smooth sailing...by the way, I have Blue Cross Blue Shield, Basic Option.

I have BCBS Federal and I'm wanting to have the VSG, I've been told it could take 4-6 months until the date of surgery, due to waiting for the insurance to approve it, I don't think my nerves can wait that long.. ugh! Does it really take that long? What are all of the requirements, such as diets before surgery?

I'm looking to have a VSG with Dr. A and have a scheduled date April 5th, 2010.  I was lead to believe I will have to self-pay because insurance companies do not cover VSG.  After reading a few comments and yours............I'm thinking there is a chance.  I have blue shield of california insurance.  What is an overseas claim exactly?  Any step by step info would greatly be helpful. I have a BMI of 42 so I probably don't need 2 other conditions. 

It would be wonderful for some reimbursement!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Maree