Question:
Only one physician in my state that performs surgery? What can I do for coverage?

I am currently with Prudential Healthcare HMO from Oklahoma. I have found out that their is only one doctor in the state that performs the surgery and he does not honor Prudential insurance. I was told by my insurance company that I could not be covered if I travel out of state to a physician that would probably be "in network" because this company is so large. I can change to the POS plan under the insurance but not until next July. And even then I am not sure that the insurance will cover my surgery. I really want this surgery and without insurance I will not be able to have it. What are my rights in finding out if the insurance company will help me with this surgery? Basically, What are my options. If anyone has had any experience with this please educate me.    — Holly B. (posted on October 5, 1999)

October 5, 1999
If they don't pay 100% out of network, what DO they pay? It's good to have a choice. Do you know anything about the one physican they offer? Which procedures, what kind of follow-up, any successful patients you can talk to? My out of network pays 50%, at least.
   — vitalady

October 5, 1999
I just saw my internist last week and asked him about this surgery he gave me some names of doctors in Oklahoma that he knew of that did do wls. I don't know if they accept your insurance but here they are. Mason Jett 1-405-232-4211, Dr. Gorospe 1-918-747-8100, and Russell Hanan 1-405-235-3245. Hope this helps and let me know how it goes. My email address is [email protected]
   — Patricia A.