Question:
How can I get an insurance company to insure me for this operation?

I was recently awarded Social Security disablilty. I wouldn't qualify for Medicare until December 2000. I really need this operation now, and don't have the money to pay for it privately. I have spoken to one doctor's office and they will operate if I pay them $13,000 in full one month before the operation! Does anyone have any information to help me. I currently live in Northern New Jersey.    — Linda D. (posted on June 16, 1999)

June 17, 1999
Wow. Well, while many insurance companies are only through worksites, there have been some that will take on individuals to cover them. The trick is to make sure they cover the surgery, or can make an exception for you... I think Medicare or some state insurance companies will cover them, but I don't know how hard the fight would be, or how long it would take. The best, and really only advice I can give you for now is to investigate what insurance companies are in your area that would be willing to work with you as an individual, and seeing what they will and will not cover. Good luck.
   — Molly S.