Question:
I need information from those who have used TRC.

I am going to have to use TRC because my employer switched to BCBS of TX and effective Oct 1, we have a written exclusion in our policy. So, I am going to try the TRC before I give up and go and get a lower-paying job ($3.30/hour less,) with insurance that will pay. I already have a surgeon in Houston I want to use, and only need help paying for the surgery. Any patients who used TRC and got approval, please email me with information, I need to have all my bases covered so that I can get approval as quickly as possible. Here is my email: [email protected]. Thanks so much.    — Diana M. (posted on September 22, 2001)

September 22, 2001
I dont have TRC but I looked it up and it looks like they approve most people but it was a long wait for that approval. But who doesnt wait forever for approval.
   — Michelle Y.

September 23, 2001
I am hardly an expert on this topic, but my impression of TRC was that they would pay for this surgery in order to help someone RETURN to the work force. I am not sure that this applies in your case. If you already have a job, then morbid obesity isn't keeping you from maintaining employment. I could be wrong about this, but I believe it is true. Shelley
   — Shelley.

September 23, 2001
I did go through TRC and was already working at that time. The approval took right at one year. I had to be able to explain to them how my weight effected my job and my job performance. I also know several other people who went through TRC and in different areas of the state. They all were asked different questions just pending on the case worker. Just be prepared to explain how it hinders you in the work place and have all your diet history prepared. You will have to have a referral from your primary physician for surgery, letter of recommendation from the surgeon, letter of recommendation from an internal medicine Dr or Endrocronologist and have a pshyc evaluation. (This can be done after your visit with TRC) - Good Luck and be patient!
   — [Anonymous]

September 30, 2002
I have my first appointment with TRC tomorrow. They have asked that I bring the following to my first appointment: 1. Social Security Card 2. names and addresses of and doctors I have seen recently 3. names and addresses of any schools I have attended 4. information about any medical insurance, including Medicaid and Medicare 5. a list of places I have worked - including type of job, dates, reason for leaving and salary; 6. income information for me and my spouse or my parents if they claim me as a dependent on their federal income tax - documents from the source of your income, for example, a copy of last pay stub, SSI/SSDI or VA award letter, worker's compensation Notice of Payment, last income taxt return, etc. 7. names addresses and phone numbers of two people who will know how to contact me and 8. any reports of recent medical exams, school records, or other information which you feel may help the counselor understand your disability. I'll keep you posted as I can. - Take Care, - Carla B.
   — carlaburkhalter