Question:
Has anyone been approved with Cigna with low 40's BMI and no comorbids

I am 31 year old male with a BMI of 43 and no serious comorbids and have gone through the process and have a surgery date of Dec.3rd but the doctor says I have a 50/50 chance of getting approved. Any advise?    — wesley B. (posted on October 24, 2002)

October 24, 2002
Hi I was just wondering when do they even send your stuff in to the insurance company. Because here/ where im getting mine you go see a surgeon for you first consult then get all your test done then they send yours stuff off for approval before they ever give you a surgery date. I would call your insurance company and find out what all your requirements and what their polocies are on getting a WLS. Because I know I would be so heart broken/ depressed if I had a date and then the insurance wouldn't cover it or something. I would deffinatly find out about what your insurance thinking about the wls. To be prepared. And honestly I would write a personal letter to the insurance company and tell them everything about your self how being morbid Obese effects your life. From every veiw of your body and mind. Because I honestly believe this was the #1 thing that helped me get approved. I wrote a 5 page letter about my self. Typed in size 10 font. I know its a lot but it helped alot. Make them feel and go through a day in your shoes they will see. I wish you the best of luck, sorry I didn't know to much about cigna. Ps: And always remember if you want something bad enough you will never give up on trying to get it. Send in more letters and appeals if you get denied. Hope this helped.
   — Starla W.

October 25, 2002
Theoretically, a BMI over 40 should be sufficient to qualify you. But every insurance company is different in their evaluations. I agree with the previous poster that you should write a strong (but not angry) letter telling your story and pointing out that with the surgery and your subsequent weight loss you are far less likely to require later medical attention that will cost them more in the long run. Remind them that you want the surgery to improve your health and to extend your potential lifespan. Your letter should be sent in with the physicians records and tests or right after. Good luck.
   — Arlene S.

October 25, 2002
I was 255 lbs. and 5' 6", which meant a BMI of 41. I had hypertension that was under control with medication. My blood sugar was a little higher than it should have been, nowhere near diabetes though, but I was approved by Cigna in no time flat. I am almost 2 months out now. 219 lbs. No more blood pressure medication. Blood sugar is normal. Doing great. Good luck!
   — NitaE