Question:
Non-compliant with eating habits.....DENIED

I am scheduled to have surgery on Feb 5th. However, today I was notified by my surgeons office I was denied as the doctor for my insurance company reviewed my charts and denied me based on "Non-Compliant with eating habits!!" What the he** is that all about? Isnt that why most of us are here to have the surgery? WHat do I do? I am sick to my stomach about all this! Please email me...thank you for listening!    — Tracey W. (posted on January 19, 2004)

January 19, 2004
People here always say to tell the truth. Personally I've learned that is not always the best thing to do. As far as phycologists go, "whatever you say CAN and WILL be used against you". I'm assuming that is what happened to you. (Glad I've learned my lesson and I avoid these things now). I'm so sorry for you though. If we did'nt have eating problems we would'nt have needed WLS.
   — Danmark

January 19, 2004
Tracey I hired Walter Linstrom, obesity surgery lawyer and advocate. I was denied too. My experience is that the insurance companies are trying to get away with anything. He wrote a 22 page appeal letter for me. I got his name and number from a friend in Oregon who was denied. After the appeal letter from Walter, she was approved. My appeal letter was just sent on Friday, so my finger's are crossed! may you have luck with your appeal. -Jeanne Stewart
   — Jeanne S.

January 19, 2004
So often, the insurance companies deny EVERYONE on the first try; so APPEAL!!! Talk to your PCP and/or your surgeon. If the first letter of appeal doesn't work, do it again--and go see a lawyer (Walter Lindstrom). I read quite a few profile where people have used him and got approved!! Don't even think about giving up! Don't let the cheap insurance company beat you!! We're all behind you! Jessica
   — Jessica D.

January 19, 2004
A lawyer is definately the way to go, I used Gary Viscio ([email protected]) Good Luck
   — superellen