Question:
The doctor I want to see wants his surgeons fee up front....

The doctor I want to see requires that the $12,000 surgeon's fee be paid up-front and then you (hopefully) will get reimbursed by your insurance company. In my opinion, that's a small price to pay for the procedure I want with someone who is in the top of their field (if you're thinking DS and Rabkim, you're correct). So I am wondering if any of you have any ideas for getting such a large sum of money together. Take out a loan? I already applied for another credit card (my credit history is very good, but I am a college student so it's hard to get a high limit). Anyone have any ideas? I have an 80/20 PPO, so I would at least get some money back. I finally told everyone in my family that I want to do this and that was hard enough. Now for the money... Thanks! :)    — [Anonymous] (posted on September 20, 2001)

September 19, 2001
I am also a self-pay patient, in light of my insuranc co. denials. I contacted the hospital, surgeon and anesthesia group separately and negotiated a deal. I was told that this was a typical payment plan. Details about that are on my webpage, along with other useful WLS info, at http://www.lkdobson.homestead.com Good luck to you!!
   — Lisa D.

September 20, 2001
Sell your car. See if your parents would take out a loan against their home equity which you would repay. Save up.
   — Cindy H.