Question:
WLS excluded regardless of medical conditions is there hope?

I have Intermountain Healthcare (IHC) insurance. The exclusion says: Treatment of obesity is excluded, including but not limited to surgical, medical, and medication services, regardless of associated medical, emotional, or psychological conditions. I have just started thinking about have WLS. I haven't talked to a doctor yet, so I haven't tried to get approval. With an exclusion like this is there any hope??? My BMI is 56.9!!!    — Gretchen T. (posted on June 11, 2000)

June 11, 2000
Hi Gretchen! Whatever you do don't give up!!! I'm waiting for insurance approval right now. I've been coming to this site for about 8 months now and have read about people buying insurance just to get the surgery. Maybe this is something you could look into. GOOD LUCK!! Niki
   — Niki G.

June 11, 2000
Hi, one thing I have learned from my lawyer Walter Lindstrom, who won my approval for my surgery is: there is a difference between obesity and morbid obesity. that is one of the loop holes that he uses to get approval. Anyway, you need to start the process and if you get denied then decide what to do next. If you would like information in regards to Walter Lindstrom his web site is www.obesitylaw.com I am sure others here are sick to death of my mentioning him, but he really came through for me and I cannot promote his help enough. I felt he was very reasonable especially compared to paying for the surgery myself. He had the surgery himself six years ago and has maintained his weight loss. He is passionate about WLS and defintely KNOWS ALL of the ways to get around those little clauses. I pray for good success in this process for you. Don't delay and don't give up.
   — Cindy M.

June 12, 2000
Gretchen, that exclusion sounds very inflexable. I have to agree with Ray and be realistic. Sounds like the insurance company won't pay at all. But there are other options as Ray suggested and I'd urge you to investigate them. Sometimes it is better to move on and cut the losses with a company rathar than try to persuade them to change their minds which they won't do. All you'll have to show for it is heartache, dashed hopes, anger, frustration, and more tears. Move forward in another direction and don't give up!!
   — Fran B.

June 12, 2000
they can't just say no you need documention of your fight with fat all the ailments its caused from your doctor your case hstory and if they still say no then contac Oliver obesitylaw.com and he'll take you through the process. there is hope even if they say they won't cover Mine said they would'nt cover wls --But they aproved mine 1st time through.. go figare C YA D
   — david M.