Question:
Has anyone with Medi-Cal been approved for wls?

I have a question, I heard that it takes 2 to 2 1/2 years to get a doctor that excepts medi-cal to just get a referal for a consult with a sugeon. I am thinking about applying for medi-cal, but if it's going to take that long I will go another route. Anyone who is familiar with medi-cal I would really be thankful for any help. Thank You -Becky Adair-    — Becky A. (posted on July 6, 2002)

July 6, 2002
I was approved by Compass (Formerly Images) I know alot of places wont touch you if you are on a state funded insurance. Just keep searching. Good luck on you quest.
   — Christina B.

July 6, 2002
I know several people that have been approved for the DS with Medi-cal. It averages between 2 weeks - 2 months, depending on who you get to manage your case it seems. Anita 11/08/01 Dr Keshishian (open GR-DS) Great West PPO
   — Anita N.

July 6, 2002
Hi Becky! I currently have Medi-Cal and was approved in a month and a half-- It just depends on who you go to and an important factor in all of this is, making sure the doctor's office sends ALL of the required paperwork to the state. I was also told that it would be a lengthy process but it really wasn't! The total time from my very first "session" with my doctor to having an approval and a surgery date was maybe 3 months--I extended the surgery date, though, to accomodate my kids' school schedule, otherwise I would have had my surgery already. [I will be having it in 10 more days!!] When applying for Medi-Cal, you will have it for a while, but eventually the state wants you to get on a "managed health care program." Also known as an HMO. I wanted to keep "straight" Medi-Cal to have the option to see the doctor of my choice for WLS. I wish you all the best! ~Jodi~
   — imjomama365

July 6, 2002
HI, I, TOO, HAVE MEDICAL, AND I HAD SURGERY 3 MONTHS AND 2 DAYS AFTER MY INITIAL CONSULTATION. MEDICAL PAID FOR EVERYTHING. THERE WERE NO APPEALS TO GO THROUGH. I WAS ASTONISHED AT HOW FAST THEY APPROVED ME. I HAD NO MAJOR HEALTH PROBLEMS BUT HAD MANY IN MY FAMILY HISTORY. BE SURE TO HAVE ALL OF YOUR TESTS DONE BEFORE THEY SEND THE PAPERWORK OFF. MY DOC TOLD ME MEDICAL INSISTED ON PTIENTS SEEING A PSYCHOLOGIST, NUTRITIONIST, AND A SLEEP APNEA TEST. THAT IS ALL I HAD TO DO. GOOD LUCK...PETIE
   — PETIE B.