Question:
Have been recently told BCBS HMO coes not cover WLS but I see other people on the

list who have been approved? Please can someone explain this confusing subject?    — collinsnatalear (posted on June 9, 2006)

June 9, 2006
Insurance coverage is set up based on what the employer wants covered. WLS is covered by some employers, but not all. I have Kaiser and it was covered through my husband's employer, however the other insurance offered by the employer didn't cover wls or it's follow up care. I am glad we have Kaiser!
   — LauraA

June 9, 2006
The previous poster is correct....I have BCBS of GA HMO and I luckily found out that eff 12/31/05 my employer would no longer carry the WLS rider with BCBS. With that in mind I was able to expedite my surgery and have it performed prior to the end of last year. BCBS will cover what the employer pays them to cover...
   — mmcphee1

June 10, 2006
In the State of Maryland, if an employer has more than 50 employees, they have to cover WLS. You may want to check your states insurance laws before giving up. You know how some companies will try to circumvent regulations. In Maryland, if you BMI is over 40, you automatically qualify without all that other craziness.
   — the7thdean

July 2, 2006
I had BCBS HMO California. As a nurse working for a hospital that performed the surgery. I was fortunate that my MEDICAL GROUP approved the surgery. Sometimes it depends on what your company has opted for it's employees....NOT the insurance itself.
   — CHARLYLVN