Question:
HMO or PPO

I have CIGNA but I am learning that my job considers the surgery elective. So I am looking into BCBS but should I choose an HMO or PPO?    — hallmon (posted on November 25, 2009)

November 25, 2009
also, I've noticed that BCBS states that I must cancel all and any insurance that I currently have once their policy becomes effective. Is this correct?
   — hallmon

November 25, 2009
It doesn't matter whether your employer considers the surgery elective. They are not allowed to ask what kind of surgery you are having. So did you mean to say CIGNA doesn't cover the surgery? My insurance is Kaiser, which I highly recommend if it's an option.
   — Janell C.

November 25, 2009
I have both PPO and HMO with BCBS, but my HMO will not pay. The PPO paid for my surgery.
   — bigred1971

November 25, 2009
I had to switch to a PPO.
   — FSUMom

November 25, 2009
My job is to verify insurance benefits and obtain insurance authorizations.... definitely the PPO!!!
   — DarcieLeighAZ

November 26, 2009
I'm in the beginning stages of the surgery...doing pre op visits. I called my PPO which is BCBS of NC and asked what I needed to do. They were more than helpful and have called me back a couple of times to make sure things are going well. I couldn't get a 2 year weight history since my doctor's scales only go to 350...the insurance company told me what to do in order to satisfy that requirement. A friend of mine has an HMO...her words.."They suck!" Go with the PPO...
   — kchooker