Question:
Just got insurance for first time

Hello all, I am new to insurance, just received it for first time. We could never afford it before. My question is, i dont have my benefit book yet, but i called anthem and asked if weight loss surgery was a covered benefit. She said no right away, and she said it stated on exclusions that treament for weight loss or obesity is not a covered benefit. I am so lost, i dont really know where to start here. I dont even really go to doctors before getting this insurance. I would appreciate any help/suggestions on what to do starting out.thank you very much... sharon    — sharon C. (posted on January 21, 2004)

January 21, 2004
Unfortunately, a written exclusion is usually a written exclusion. They typically don't take into account special circumstances or medical necessity. I, too, had insurance with a written exclusion and went through the appeal process and everything. The outcome was what I hear it is for most people with written exclusions... which is that they wished me luck and said it was a great thing for me to do, but they wouldn't be helping me to pay for it. Good luck!
   — gina C.

January 22, 2004
Wait until you get your list of exclusions, alot of times the customer service people have no idea what your policy states. That being said, if you purchased individual coverage, most do not cover WLS. Rebecca 10/03/01 265/140
   — RebeccaP

January 22, 2004
hi i have anthem and i know all policy are different but mine said must have medical necessity so see if it is with documentation see what they say then or get another repr and get your hand book also that will tell you things. good luck rosemary
   — ROSEMARY A.