Question:
How long after insurance coverage starts should I wait before trying to get approval

I started a new job this past Monday. My insurance will kick in by this Monday. How long should I wait to start the process for lap band approval. I am very anxious to get started, and the ins. policy says no waiting period for pre -existing conditions. Does that give me the green light to proceed,even though I am a new employee?    — ncjackrussell2 (posted on February 2, 2008)

February 2, 2008
I would give your Employer and the insurance company a few months rather than rush in and request the coverage information. You can call the insurace company and inquire if they cover WLS. Also some insurance companies will cover if your have other complications like Heart Problem, High Blood Pressure, etc. Focus on finding a doctor and attending a support meeting or two to get a better understanding of what you will be required to do besiges just have the surgery.
   — William (Bill) wmil

February 2, 2008
Hi, Every year at my company we have to pick new insurance. We can keep what we have or change. I chose the only one they offered that covered weight loss surgery. We pick in November and it takes effect on 1/1 I called a week later. I pay 250.00 a month for my inurance for my family. So I figure they work for me. She asked me my weight and height and said i was covered and assigned me a case worker. I then went to my pcp and got him in my corner. I told them I have been reading up on this for almost a year which is true. I have a apt with the surgon 2/15. I have been with the company for 10 years though. I have vacation time and 3 months of fml if i need it. Will you have any time off yet. I would call and see if it is covered and who is in network. Last year they had an exclusion on the policy. I am planning on leaving the company as soon as i get this. I thought i would let them give me a little present first.
   — Jesses_girl

February 2, 2008
Shirley made a good point regarding time off. You may also want to look into hospital indemnity insurance -- it pays you for each day your are in the hospital. I have that through State Farm. Don't feel you have to wait; I'm sure your insurance company have an internet site and access the information from there and see what their requirements will be prior to going to your PCP. Good luck
   — the7thdean

February 2, 2008
I say why wait? You have the green light. I was in a similar situation. My insurance started on day one and I knew they covered WLS. By the time you find a doctor, attend a seminar, get a consultation, and do every thing that insurance wants before you have the surgery it will take several months. You need to check about time off. Will you have paid leave? How soon can you miss work with out being reprimanded? You will probably be off 2-3 weeks. Good Luck!!
   — mary_rn

February 3, 2008
I started a new Insurance in Sept Had my consultation in Jan and Im scheduled for surgery in March. I only waited that long because Jan was the first appointment my surgeon had. But I made the call right away. Besides you don't apply for ins approval until you have done all the pre-testing. Book your consultation... good luck on your journey.
   — Rachelena

February 4, 2008
My husband had start a new job and It took 3 months to get new insurance, but we went right ahead and requested approval from the new insurance which was atena and got approval with in a week. It's a process but well worth it in the end. Good Luck to you!!!!!
   — Franchesca

February 4, 2008
I agree with everything that everyone is telling you. The first thing the crossed my mind as I was reading your post is taking time off for surgery. I was out 3 weeks with my lapband and 5 weeks when I switched to the RNY a year later. Also, I am sure you did your homework but remember most insurances now state, one weight loss surgery per lifetime, so make sure that the band is what you truly want before you jump in. I too like the others would wait a few months, it will pass quickly and less jeopardy of losing your job. Good luck with your decision.
   — noboat4u