Question:
Chicago--are you a Rush employee with Unicare HMO?

Hi everyone, I'm trying to get approved by Unicare HMO through Rush University Medical Center. I just got a letter today saying they need more info--a psych eval (which was in the packet my surgeon sent), internal medicine clearance and 18 months of physician supervised weight loss programs. I'm very discouraged (been doing this for two years, switched insurance plans, doctors, surgeons, etc), and would love to hear from someone who has had success with Unicare. Also, does anyone know if the 18-month MD supervised weight loss attempts has to be with the same MD? Thanks for any help/info you can offer. Dreamsofa.    — dreamsofa (posted on April 29, 2004)

May 3, 2004
I had mu surgery through bcbs of il 6/9/03 at Northwestern. it took two days for approval from the time they got my info. I also am covered through unicare hmo and I have UNH too. I must say unicare is the worst insurance company I have ever dealt with and I have had many. I only took it because its free to me. I never use it, too much of a hassle. I used to work in employee benefits and unicare is horrible. When i see how thin their provider directory is, it was a sure sign that no doctors wna to deal with them.18 months is a very long time. Most insurance compnay ask for a year. Do they consider weight watchers, jenny craig medically supervised? I just want to say good luck.
   — Lisa G.