PEIA Should Pay for the Lap-Band

I have been trying to get WLS since 2002. My first choice is the Lap Band and I even switched health plans back then so i could get it paid for.  Imagine my anger when I learned that PEIA doesn't pay for this procedure, nor do they plan to anytime in the future.

I think it is ridiculous, since, if one is to believe all their marketing, they are all about "healthy West Virginians". If that were true, they would seek the widest array of tools possible to assist us in our journey to health.

I am extremely disappointed that evidently I will have to have the only surgery they will pay for, the RNY.  Why should PEIA make the decision as to which surgery is the best for me?

If you have coverage with PEIA, please write and tell them to offer the widest array of surgical weight loss tools possible. WLS is NOT one size fits all.


thanks

PEIA does need to change their practices. Been there....written letters...called, called, even talked to my local delegates and even written a couple congressmen/women. Does NOT do any good. I had to have the RNY...wanted the lapband. But, at the time of my procedure, they had one person at PEIA (VEDA). SHe made all the calls on approvals/denials. Unsure if she is still there....but I was denied 4 times. Finally was approved after diabetes set in and a couple other problems. But, PEIA does need to change their practices...that's for sure.

I have heard the approved the lap banding  as of  July 1 2008  i need to know what all I have to do before the i get approved for the surgery  thanks

Have you heard if they allow the mini gastric bypass? I am looking at both of them as an option and am unsure which would be the most beneficial. Does the MD at the hospital decide which is best for each person individually or is my PCP involved? Is it natural to have a 'let's do it now' feeling? I'd go tonight if I could. Thanks in advance for any help and/or tips on this process.