Question:
Does anyone know about coverage for WLS and Medicaid?

   — Kimberly R. (posted on May 4, 2003)

May 4, 2003
I know that most states medicaid will pay for it. I know that all they expect is for you to have a bmi of 40 or above...and short limbs...(i know lol)what state are you from? Im from NC so i only know what they expect...good luck
   — cinamoni

May 4, 2003
HI KIM, I AM ON MEDICAIDE AND HAD WLS BACK IN JAN. IT USUALLY COVERS IT AS LONG AS YOUR SURGEON SASYS THAT IT IT MEDICALLY NECESSARY AND USUALLY HAVE A BMI OVER 40 OR MORE. GOOD LUCK TO YOU. WHAT STATE ARE YOU FROM, EVERY STATE IS DIFFERENT THOUGH.
   — Melodee S.

May 4, 2003
I'm from Idaho but have friends on WA state medicaid. I know as of last year that if you could prove medical necessity that it was covered. I was also told the same thing by Sacred Heart Hospital in Spokane, WA when I was checking out all my options (no insurance coverage here). I was also told by a post-op on that they'll cover your TT too if you can prove medical necessity. Hope this helps!
   — Shelly S.

May 4, 2003
I live in New Jersey. I have medicade and They approved me in a week or so. I had no problems what so ever. I had open.
   — Naes Wls J.

May 5, 2003
I live in Kentucky and Medicaid paid 100% of all charges, pre-op, surgery, and so far all post-op! Best of luck to you! God Bless. <><
   — garnet156

May 5, 2003
Hi there, I live in Washington, have medicaid and hope to have surgery. My consult is in June. My surgeon takes medicaid and has had many patients with medicaid who have successfully had surgery. You do have to have BMI over 40 and it should be medically necessary. I have whats called an 'open coupon' and because of that I don't have to have a pcp referral, which is a big stress relief. If you have any questions, email me! Good Luck!
   — Kelly R.