Question:
Minnesota - No insurance - No job - No DICE!

I've already had surgery and been successful with it. I have a friend that would love to have this surgery. She is about 100-140 lbs overweight. She's just a delightful person and I'd love to help her with information! She has no job right now (actually she just got a part time one today) but it's not related to her weight. She is looking for a job right now. She has no insurance. She has no diabilities. She is low income though. Is there anyone out there that knows of a way she can have this surgery done? Please don't respond with "get a job with insurance benefits for wls" or "get a loan," as these are not options for her right now. Is there a state aided program to help lower income people? Is there a surgeon that will accept monthly payments? I think she would be willing to travel to Wisconsin or Iowa (since they're close). Please help! You guys always come up with great answers!    — Goldilauxx B. (posted on November 6, 2002)

November 6, 2002
Cyndie, Your friend might want to check into MinnesotaCare. If she has no children and does not qualify for Medical Assistance, she may be eligible for MinnesotaCare Insurance with a sliding fee, based on her income. I do not know if they cover WLS, but it is always worth a try. She can find information about MN Care with the human service agency in her county. Good Luck to her!
   — Patty E.

November 6, 2002
yes your friend can get insurance thru the county for lower income people my brother has it and so do i ..we both have medicare..
   — christine S.

November 7, 2002
Most states have insurance available for low income people with or without kids. Have her call Social Services in her county, explain her situation, (age, income, etc...) and they should be able to tell her what she can qualify for. Best of luck to you, and your friend! :)
   — Carey N.