Question:
Aetna vs Cigna

I had Rny last December and have cigna and they were fine then. Now my wife wants the band and she has a 38 BMI and wanted to know how cigna is because I have heard they are horrible now and I can switch to Aetna if they are better. Anyone have anything to share? I appreciate it. Wes pre 295 currently 185    — wesley B. (posted on October 27, 2003)

October 27, 2003
I don't believe Aetna covers the band at all.. I could be wrong on this, but my experience with them was that they only cover RNY.
   — SarahC

October 27, 2003
Here is Aetna's policy. http://www.aetna.com/cpb/data/CPBA0157.html As it states, you need to check your particular policy to see what your employer has chosen to cover. Also, Aetna will cover the band if you have medical conditions which make RNY more risky (Cirrosis, history of adhesions after prior abdominal surgeries, Crohn's disease, etc.) Good Luck.
   — Carolyn M.

October 27, 2003
Someone posted earlier in the month that, as of 2004, Cigna was no longer going to cover WLS. I don't know for sure, but I would check it out first.
   — CAMFR

October 27, 2003
I have CIGNA. Right now they are covering wls - with strict requirements. I just found out about six month documented diet program requirement in September, so I won't be able to meet their criteria by the end of this year. I was informed by CIGNA (I'm in Mass.) that as of 1/1/04, they will not cover wls unless your health insurance policy has a special rider. And if you get the coverage thru your employer (like I do) the company has to have the rider for every employee. My company is not going to have the rider... so I have to switch insurance companies and pay for my new coverage out of pocket.
   — mary G.