Question:
How can you get insurance if your not insurable?

My husbands insurance will not cover wls. So I decided to try and get insurance that will. Problem is I have been told I am not insurable, because I am a diabetic, have high blood pressure, asthma, reflux, heart murmur, and I weigh 262lbs @ 5foot even. Now I live in Tn., they have a TennCare insurance I think I could get that but I am afraid to give up my husband to find out or do I have to? Does any one know.    — TINA N. (posted on November 10, 2001)

November 10, 2001
Do you work? If you don't, I would get some kind of job at Walmart, Target,etc. somewhere. If you are a full time employee they mut offer you heath insurance. I would try to find an insurance compnay thAT covers WLS, then work for a company that has it. even if it's only for 6 months. That is what I did, I knew Aetna ALMOST always covers, so I changed to a job that had Aetna. My surgery will be on Dec 12th. If you really want surgery, you're going to have to do whatever it takes. This is my only suggestion to you. I am 4'11 and 200# so I am close to your height. Good Luck I hope others have some help to offer you.
   — Cindee A.

November 10, 2001
Don't get a job at Walmart. Their ins is notorious for not covering wls, no exceptions. There have been numerous complaints on the board and in questions and in the chat room about walmart insurance. good luck
   — Becky K.

November 10, 2001
While I was looking into getting insurance, I ran across something...I ignored it, because by that time I was on my way to Mexico. I read these boards every day and feel SO bad for people that can not afford to go to Mexico. I sent for a packet from this medical plan, and when I get it I'll let you know what the deal is. It is supposed to cover pre-existing conditions, costs $65.00 a month, and no deductible. From what I understand so far, you pay the contracted price instead of the full price of the surgery. (Kind of like a PPO) Like I said, it sounds too good to be true, but if it works out...WOW! Remind me in a week and I'll give you an update on what I have found out about this.
   — Helena R.

November 11, 2001
HMOs that offer individual policies are not allowed legally to deny you insurance. Your policy would just be very, very expensive, and you would have to purchase the ability to get the surgery. Purchasing the ability would probably cost you as much as paying cash for the surgery. Finding employment is the best way to go, but it would be hard to find out who covers what before you are hired.
   — Melissa B.