Question:
What's his about BCBS NOT covering???

I'm starting a new job this week with BCBC of Minnesota PPO for the only hope of getting WLS here in the next 6 mos. I will have the Ins. in 8 weeks. I heard the policy is changing soon but I don't know?? Any info?!?!    — Shannon D. (posted on April 27, 2003)

April 27, 2003
Sharon, one thing I have learned is never go by what the little birdy tells you, check into this info yourself and find out what really is going on...I had bcbs of california even though i resided in nevada, and they covered the surgery...I know alot of people or i should say i have read alot of people who also have bcbs and also was covered ... so maybe if you can get the number to customer care you can check or better yet, try to get your hot little hands on a handbook and read it to see what it states regarding wls...good luck to you!
   — Deanna Wise

April 27, 2003
I agree, check your individual policy. I was just covered by BC/BS Federal Employee Program which is also a PPO. Good Luck!!
   — Carol S.

April 27, 2003
That particular rumor has been around for a LONG time. The fact is that Blue Cross/Blue Shield is many, many different companies, with many different policies. I have Anthem BC/BS of Colorado and although their requirements to qualify for the surgery are pretty stringent, I was able to meet them without a problem. The only way to know what YOUR policy will cover is to call and ask or to look at the book your HR department should have given you when you signed up for the policy.
   — garw

April 27, 2003
I to had BC/BS of California PPO and was covered 100%, my surgery was on 02/19/2003 and the Dr office did all the paper work and was approved in 1 week without any problems. Like the other posters said check with your HR Department for the handbook to get the skinny on what is and is not covered.
   — tonyskid

April 27, 2003
Well, This is not a rumor! I was in for my surgery when this all took place! Bariatric Treatment ceneter in Ypsilanti, Mi. Layed of Two- Thirds of there employees becaue blue cross is not covering there center anymore. Because they feel they can send there patients to other facilities for cheaper. There were only certain centers that were involved. So they are dropping from 13 surgeries a day to 4. So that was part of the reason for the staff cutt! I had surgery March 25th.
   — sallman

April 27, 2003
From what I understand, BC/BS is still covering WLS for those policies that always have, but all BTC centers have chosen not to accept patients who have BC/BS anymore. Check your own individual policy and if it is still covered, then go to a surgeon on their provider list. Good luck!<br> Lap-RNY 1/13/03 -100lbs & Counting!
   — thumpiez

April 27, 2003
Shannon, I have Blue Cross Prudent Buyer Plan PPO of California. My surgeon's office submitted request for approval last Monday and I was approved with a surgery date scheduled by Wednesday ( 2 days!!). No co morbs and a BMI of 41. Try to relax. Hopefully your surgeons office will be handling the letter to insurance. Trust me, they know how to word the request. Best of luck.....
   — Maggie M.

April 28, 2003
I also have BCBS of Minn. I was just approved last week. As it was said by another poster - Your benefits and any changes are up to your employer. I wouldn't worry about it too much...policy changes don't occur during the policy year. If you can, find out when the policy year changes. About 90% of the changes occur Dec/Jan during open enrollment. Feel free to email me! Good luck! ~Robin~ Surgery date Aug. 27, 2003
   — Robin J.