Question:
Which insurances are changing WLS coverage for 2003?

Can anyone tell me which insurance companies are changing their WLS coverage for 2003? I have heard several people recently talking about some insurance companies that have covered WLS in the past that will not be covering this starting in 2003. I am at the point right now, where I can change my insurance provider if I needed to. I currently have Health Net Charter (formerly PHS). My initial consult isn't scheduled until January 20th, 2003. I would be heartbroken to wait this long only to find out that my current insurance no longer covers this surgery. I have read that Health Net is a good insurer for covering WLS without a problem... I just don't want that to change before I get the chance to apply. Any help that any of you can offer would be appreciated. (By the way, my initial consult is at the UCONN Health Center's Obesity Surgery Program in Farmington, Connecticut.)    — Kimberly B. (posted on November 1, 2002)

November 1, 2002
Kim, I can't answer your question about where HealthNet is going, but, I had my surgery on 8-15 and they covered EVERYTHING! The only problem I have had is we are back & forth arguing over the $500 bill for pre-op testing, but, between you & me, if I have to pay it I will. What is $500 for a new life.
   — heathercross

November 1, 2002
Kim- At this time of the year you should be able to get a benefit package for 2003 that will teel you what is covered for 2003. after reading some of the posts lately about insurance coverages changing, i got nervous too! I have bc/bs federal employee insurance. i just went to the website and looked at fiirst, changes for next year and then second, what was covered for 2003 and to my delight the coverage for WLS is not changing. The point to all this is that you can find out right now what will be covered next year. Believe me, they already know!! Good Luck and i hope it all goes your way!!!
   — Carol S.

November 1, 2002
If you are currently in open enrollment, they have to provide you with a list of exclusions and limitations to your policy. Ask your HR rep. If you are NOT in open enrollment, call the customer service number on the back of your ins card. You said you are at a point where you can change ins if you need to. Either get the E&L to that co's policy, or find the website and get a number. TALK TO A PERSON!! Sometimes, the info on the website will only reflect the current status of E&L. You are asking about the future of your policy. By law they have to divulge you this info. Hope this helps...Ann
   — Ann H.