Question:
What is is the Waiting period for BCBS of NC, for WLS surgery?

I am currently self-pay for WLS, and have been saving the money for a while. Lots of ppl tell me not to have this surgery without Ins. due to possible complications and I fully understand that. If I were get BCBS of NC today, what is the waiting period for pre-existing conditions?, some ppl tell me a year, and some ppl tell me there is no waiting period, as It relates to WLS. I caution to ask the Ins. Company out right for fear of rejection for Ins. if they know I'm probably gonna drop them once I stablize. I'll have no need for after that because I get all my Medical services free through the VA.    — Damon C. (posted on May 6, 2005)

May 6, 2005
Have you had any other insurance lately. If so then there my NOT be pre-existing clause. If you have NOT has insurance in the last 90days (I know 90 days with Alabama) there is a year wait for pre existing conditions. If I were you instead of asking them directly I would find out what there website is and read the Ebook they have with all there rules and regulations. Also please remember with some companies there are exclusions. I dont know if this counts on self pay individual insurance of not. Good Luck and Angel Hugs Tegan Angel
   — TeganAngel

May 6, 2005
Oh and I wanted to let you know if you do go self pay (I may have to do this) There is an outstanding doctor In Anniston Al. His name is Bryan Freeman He studied under Alan Whitgrove (Carnie wilson's doctor) he has also had this surgery done himself. But 1st and for most he has preformed over 1,600 WLS and have had NOT even one death. Now one other thing that will catch your eye. He has a self pay package! Total for hospital anithesioligiest His bill and everything else is only 15,000 Which is only a fraction of the cost of other doctors I have talked to except one in Mexico. Hugs Again Tegan Angel
   — TeganAngel

May 6, 2005
I also was self-pay. I was able to find out the hospital had a special funding that I applied for, so they ended up covering my hospital part. I only had to pay about $4000. I have had no problems at all since my surgery, and it will be 3 years in July.
   — DeeDee O.

May 6, 2005
Be sure and check. I had BCBS of Wisconsin and received a letter from them that as of May 1, 2005 they are no longer covering WLS.
   — Kimscott